Are Reusable Water Bottles Not Safe?

First, allow me to say "Aaaarrrghh!" 

Okay...I'm okay now.  It took me a while to break the addiction to buying cases of bottled water in favor of using a reusable bottle to transport water in.  I was just beginning to feel good about myself for reducing my plastic consumption, but now I come to find out that a good number of reusable plastic water bottles constructed of polycarbonate plastic contain an organic compound called bisphenol-A, or BPA.  In recent scientific studies, BPA has been potentially linked to hormonal imbalances, risk of cancer, fertility issues and other health problems.  In fact, in a study released just last Tuesday by the National Toxicology Program, BPA was given a mid-range level of risk and scientists acknowledged that "the possibility that bisphenol A may alter human development cannot be dismissed".  Bisphenol-A is also present in the lining of many canned goods (including soda), plastic bottles/containers, baby bottles, cds, dvds, eyeglasses, dental sealants, and other common household items.  How many people who utilize a reusable plastic water bottle are using one that contains BPA?  Probably a very large percentage.  What I'm talking about is the kind of plastic bottle that has a #7 on the bottom of it.  Take a moment to turn your bottle over...see it?  Okay.  Yes, my wife and I own a few ourselves. 

In response to the bad press, Nalgene, a sport-bottle maker out of Fairport and Rochester, NY, had originally planned to quell consumers' fears over the recent BPA report by launching a new website that lists statistics about each of its products.  Shortly after the website's launch, Nalgene decided it would be more prudent and proactive to pull all of its products containing BPA immediately off store shelves.   How long until other manufacturers follow suit?  Until more definitive research comes out, it may be a long time coming.

So, looking to replace your current #7 reusable water bottle?  One option is to go for plastics with BPA safe numbers on them, like ones that read #2HDPE or #5PP on the bottom.   You could also buy stylish and durable aluminum or stainless steel water bottles, like those made by SIGG, Klean Kanteen, or those offered by Nalgene---sure, they're a bit pricier (in the $20+ range), but they'll last longer than the traditional plastic bottles, they're chemical-safe, and you'll look really cool and stylish using these Green Sexy products!

Comments

[Beth Terry]

Hi there. Thanks for commenting on my site. You guys are a cute couple. I'd love for you to promote the Take Back The Filter campaign.

Thanks!
Beth