Tag: Plastic recycling codes

Statistic: The "7 Other" plastics category accounts for all resins not covered by the first six codes, including some used for food packaging, though not all are food-safe or universally recyclable. This catch-all symbol has led to widespread confusion and concern among consumers regarding its safety for food contact.

According to numerous health and manufacturing experts, LDPE 4, or Low-Density Polyethylene, is considered a BPA-free plastic. While this is a reassurance for many consumers, it is crucial to understand the full safety profile of plastic #4, including its uses and potential risks beyond the presence of Bisphenol A (BPA).

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), food-grade polypropylene (PP) plastic, identified by the recycling code '5', is a safe material for food contact. This widespread use is due to its durability, heat resistance, and chemical stability, which prevents harmful substances from leaching into food.

According to a 2023 study published in *Environmental Science & Technology*, microwaving certain plastic containers can release billions of nanoplastics into your food. Understanding **what number of plastic is microwave safe** is critical for protecting your health and preventing chemical contamination.