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October 17, 2005
Why Drinking from Plastic Water Bottles May Be Risking Your Health
In recent years, experts questioned the safety of water sold in plastic bottles. Evidence suggests that polycarbonate plastic is toxic because it contains Bisphenol A (BPA). A study reported in Current Biology found exposure to BPA resulted in birth abnormalities in mice. Although the effect on humans remains unknown, mice and humans have a very similar cell division program for eggs. At this point, there aren’t any conclusive studies documenting the safety or toxicity of many plastics. One thing is clear, however, these plastics do not exist in nature. To be on the safe side, if you buy water, buy it in glass bottles.
If you want to improve the safety of your tap water, take the following steps:
- Request a water quality report from your water supplier.
- Test your water. Water kits are available to test for bacteria, lead, pesticides, nitrates, nitrites, chlorine, PH, hardness, and arsenic. Reasonably priced kits are available at www.watersafetestkits.com and www.quickpack.com.
- Let the water run a few seconds after you turn on the tap before filling your water glass.
- If your tap water needs improvement, consider using a carbon-block filter. Look for a filter that removes particles that are less than or equal to one micron in diameter for protection from parasites.
If you want to drink bottled water:
- Choose glass bottles.
- Look on the bottom of the containers for the recycling code. Avoid recycling code #7 for polycarbonates.. Recycling codes #1, #2, and #4 denote polyethylene; #5 indicates polypropylene. Use plastics only when necessary.
- Store bottled water away from sunlight and away from household chemicals.
- Don’t reuse bottles. Avoid refilling water bottles to prevent bacteria growth and contamination.
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Posted by james at October 17, 2005 6:34 AM
Comments
What is a safe recepticle in which to store water for my kids to drink at school?
Posted by: Mrs M Farmar at September 12, 2007 9:55 AM