Understanding the Resin Identification Code System
To understand what food grade 7 plastic is, one must first grasp the Resin Identification Code (RIC) system. Developed by the Society of the Plastics Industry in the 1980s, this system categorizes plastics into seven numbered categories, typically found within a chasing-arrows symbol. While the triangle often makes consumers believe an item is recyclable, the number primarily identifies the type of plastic resin used for manufacturers. The first six codes represent specific, single types of plastic, such as PET (#1), HDPE (#2), LDPE (#4), and PP (#5), which are often considered food-safe. Code #7, however, is the exception and the source of the most consumer confusion.
What is Resin Code 7: The "Other" Category
Code #7, labeled as "Other" or sometimes just with the number, is the miscellaneous bin for plastic resins. This category is a catch-all for any plastic that does not fit into the other six categories. It includes a diverse range of single polymers, bioplastics, and composite materials made from multiple resins. This inherent variability is what makes a blanket safety assessment of "food grade 7" impossible. Some materials under this code may be perfectly safe for food contact, while others pose significant health risks.
Key Plastics Found in the #7 Category
- Polycarbonate (PC): A clear, rigid plastic often used in older baby bottles, reusable water bottles, and large water cooler jugs. This is the primary plastic within the #7 category that has been linked to health concerns due to the presence of Bisphenol A (BPA).
- Bioplastics (PLA): Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) is derived from renewable sources like cornstarch or sugarcane. It is considered a safer, BPA-free alternative and is used for compostable food packaging, though it requires specific commercial composting conditions to break down properly.
- Tritan: A rigid, clear co-polyester plastic often used as a BPA-free alternative to polycarbonate in water bottles and food containers. Its safety has been subject to debate, though manufacturers promote it as a safe option.
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): A durable, opaque plastic commonly used for kitchen utensils and containers. ABS is generally considered stable and safe for food use, as it does not leach toxins like BPA.
The Food Safety Debate: Is All #7 Plastic Dangerous?
The simple answer is no, not all #7 plastics are dangerous. The potential for harm depends entirely on the specific material used. The main concern historically revolved around polycarbonate (PC), which contains BPA, a chemical linked to potential health risks, particularly in fetuses and newborns. The FDA acknowledges that tiny amounts of BPA can transfer from some packaging into food, though they have deemed the detected levels in food to date as not currently considered harmful in the UK. However, consumer awareness and concern have pushed many manufacturers toward BPA-free alternatives.
Today, many products marked with a #7 explicitly state that they are "BPA-free". Furthermore, the presence of the internationally recognized 'cup and fork' symbol indicates that the product is certified for food contact. Relying solely on the #7 symbol is risky, given the variety of resins it represents. Consumers must be vigilant and look for additional safety indicators.
Comparison: Code 7 Plastics vs. Safer Alternatives
| Plastic Type (Resin Code) | Common Uses | Food Safety Concern | Verdict/Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polycarbonate (PC) (Code 7) | Reusable water bottles, baby bottles, cooler jugs | Leaches BPA, a chemical linked to potential health issues | Avoid for hot foods; look for BPA-free labels if using. |
| Polylactic Acid (PLA) (Code 7) | Compostable food packaging, disposable tableware | Generally considered safe and BPA-free | Safe, but not always recyclable via standard methods; look for composting info. |
| Tritan (Code 7) | Sports bottles, food containers | Manufacturer claims BPA-free, but some debate exists | Generally safe for cold liquids; avoid microwaving. |
| HDPE (Code 2) | Milk jugs, food buckets, some containers | Very stable and inert | Safe for long-term storage and reuse. |
| Polypropylene (PP) (Code 5) | Yogurt containers, microwave-safe containers, straws | Stable, heat-resistant, reusable | Best for reheating and safe reuse. |
Safest Food Grade Plastic Alternatives
If you want to avoid the ambiguity of Code #7 entirely, focus on products labeled with other Resin Identification Codes. These are generally considered more reliable for food contact, assuming they meet food-grade standards.
- Code #1 (PET): Polyethylene Terephthalate is widely used for single-use beverage bottles and food packaging. It is considered safe for its intended purpose but should not be reused, as it may degrade over time.
- Code #2 (HDPE): High-Density Polyethylene is a durable, chemical-resistant plastic used for milk jugs, food buckets, and some food storage containers. It is very stable and considered one of the safest options for food contact.
- Code #4 (LDPE): Low-Density Polyethylene is a flexible, lightweight plastic used for squeeze bottles, plastic wraps, and produce bags. It is moisture-resistant and considered safe for food storage.
- Code #5 (PP): Polypropylene is a robust, heat-resistant plastic used for yogurt cups, medicine bottles, and microwaveable food containers. It is highly versatile and considered safe for reheating food.
How to Identify Truly Food-Safe Plastics
Beyond the recycling codes, consumers should look for specific symbols and labels to ensure a product is safe for food contact. The universally recognized 'cup and fork' symbol is the most definitive indicator, assuring that the material has been tested and meets safety standards. Additionally, always check for "BPA-free" labeling, especially on clear, hard plastic items that might fall under the ambiguous Code #7 category. Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers unless they are explicitly marked as microwave-safe, which is typically a feature of Code #5 polypropylene plastics. Lastly, never reuse single-use containers, and discard any plastic items that are scratched or damaged, as they can harbor bacteria.
Conclusion
While the concept of "food grade 7" is misleading, the reality is that the #7 recycling code is a diverse group of plastics with varying levels of safety for food. The health concerns primarily stem from polycarbonate (PC) containing BPA, but many modern #7 plastics, like PLA and Tritan, are specifically designed as safer, BPA-free alternatives. The key takeaway for consumers is to never rely on the recycling number alone to determine food safety. Instead, look for clear labeling such as "BPA-free" and the international cup-and-fork symbol. By understanding the nuances of the #7 category and prioritizing plastics from codes 1, 2, 4, and 5 for reliable food storage, consumers can make more informed and safer choices for their food packaging. The FDA offers guidance on BPA in plastic products.
The Problem with Polycarbonate (PC) and BPA
The main reason for the widespread suspicion of Code #7 plastics stems from the use of polycarbonate (PC) in many early products. Polycarbonate is made using Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical that mimics estrogen in the body and has been linked to potential health issues, including effects on fetal development and increased risk of certain diseases at high levels of exposure. While regulations and industry changes have led to a decrease in its use for food contact, particularly in products for infants and children, older items made from PC can still be found. The leaching of BPA from these containers can be accelerated by heat, such as microwaving or washing in hot water. For this reason, many health-conscious consumers and authorities recommend avoiding polycarbonate altogether for food and beverages. The ambiguity created by grouping PC with newer, safer polymers under the single #7 code has been a major communication challenge for both manufacturers and consumers.
Understanding the 'BPA-Free' Labeling
As consumer awareness of BPA's potential risks grew, many companies began to market products as "BPA-free." When this label is present on a #7 plastic item, it indicates that the product is not made from polycarbonate but from one of the alternative resins in that category, like Tritan or PLA. However, the term "BPA-free" is not a guarantee of absolute safety, as some research has raised questions about potential estrogenic activity in certain alternatives, though manufacturers refute these claims. The best approach is to combine the "BPA-free" label with the cup-and-fork symbol and to avoid subjecting the plastic to extreme temperatures, as a general rule of thumb for all plastics.
What to Do with Your Existing Code #7 Plastics
For existing #7 plastic containers in your home, consider these guidelines: if it's a hard, clear plastic (and not explicitly labeled BPA-free), it's safest to assume it could be polycarbonate and contains BPA. These containers should be used only for non-food storage. If the item is marked as BPA-free or is an opaque plastic like ABS, it's generally considered safe for food use. However, to be completely certain, replacing older plastics with those clearly marked as food-safe with codes #2 (HDPE) or #5 (PP) is the safest route. By making these informed choices, consumers can navigate the complex world of plastic identifiers and protect their health.
