The Truth About Kirkland Brand Water and BPA
For many health-conscious shoppers, the question of whether a product is BPA-free is a significant factor in their purchasing decisions. For consumers of Kirkland Signature bottled water, a staple at Costco, the answer is a clear 'yes'. This isn't just a marketing claim; it's a verifiable fact related to the materials used in the packaging. The bottles for Kirkland Signature Purified Drinking Water are made from virgin and recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET & rPET), plastics that are inherently BPA-free. This means that customers can hydrate from this popular brand without worrying about bisphenol A exposure.
Understanding the Plastic Used in Kirkland Bottles
To understand why Kirkland brand water is BPA-free, it helps to know a little about the types of plastic used for beverage containers. The most common plastic for single-use water and soda bottles, including Kirkland's, is Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), identified by the recycling code #1. This material has been widely adopted for its clarity, strength, and lightweight properties. Crucially, PET is manufactured without the use of bisphenol A. The Kirkland bottles also incorporate recycled PET (rPET), which is processed specifically for food-grade use and also verified to be BPA-free. This makes the product a safe and environmentally conscious choice.
Why the Concern Over BPA?
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial chemical used primarily to make certain types of plastics and epoxy resins. It has been a common ingredient in polycarbonate plastics, which have been used for food and beverage storage in the past, and can be found in the lining of some metal food cans. The concern stems from the fact that BPA can leach from these containers into the food and beverages they hold, especially when the plastic is exposed to heat or is repeatedly used. Studies have suggested that BPA exposure can have potential health effects due to its ability to mimic the hormone estrogen. For this reason, many consumers actively seek out BPA-free products. However, it is also important to be aware that some products marketed as "BPA-free" may use alternative bisphenols, such as BPS or BPF, which can have similar endocrine-disrupting properties. By using PET, a material not related to bisphenols, Kirkland avoids this potential issue.
How to Identify BPA-Free Plastics
For those who want to be sure about the plastic they are using, identifying the resin type is a helpful practice. The resin identification code, or recycling symbol, on the bottom of plastic products provides this information.
- Look for codes #1, #2, #4, and #5: These plastics (PET, HDPE, LDPE, and PP) are generally considered BPA-free and are a safe choice for food contact.
- Exercise caution with code #7: This is a "catch-all" category for miscellaneous plastics and can include polycarbonate, which may contain BPA. Unless the product specifically labels itself as BPA-free, it's best to use caution. Since Kirkland water is code #1 (PET), it is not a concern.
Comparison of Common Plastic Bottle Materials
Understanding the materials can help you make informed choices beyond just Kirkland water.
| Feature | Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) | Polycarbonate (PC) | Polypropylene (PP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recycling Code | #1 | #7 (often) | #5 |
| BPA Content | No | Yes, contains BPA unless otherwise noted | No |
| Common Use | Single-use water & soda bottles | Large water cooler bottles, some reusable containers | Bottle caps, yogurt containers |
| Heat Stability | Moderate; generally not recommended for hot liquids | Low; increased BPA leaching when heated | High; microwave-safe containers |
| Best Practice | Use as intended; avoid reuse or heating | Avoid, especially with heat or repeated use | Safe for repeated use and higher temperatures |
Beyond BPA: Best Practices for Bottled Water
Even with BPA-free plastics, there are still best practices for storing and consuming bottled water to ensure maximum safety and quality. While minor leaching of other chemicals can sometimes occur, it can be minimized by following these simple tips:
- Keep Bottles Cool: Store bottled water away from direct sunlight or heat, such as in a hot car. Exposure to heat can increase the rate of chemical migration from plastic, even from BPA-free plastics like PET.
- Avoid Repeated Use: While reusing bottles is a good recycling practice, single-use plastic bottles, including Kirkland's, are designed for one-time use. Repeated washing and use can cause the plastic to break down, increasing the chances of chemical leaching and bacteria growth.
- Consider Reusables: For long-term hydration, consider investing in reusable water bottles made from materials like stainless steel or glass, which have zero risk of plastic chemical leaching. This is also a more environmentally sustainable option than repeatedly buying single-use plastic bottles. Here's more information on choosing safer water bottles.
Conclusion
For consumers concerned about plastic safety, Kirkland brand water offers a reassuring answer: it is indeed BPA-free. The use of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) plastic for its bottles, confirmed by Costco, means that you can enjoy your water without the worry of bisphenol A. However, even with safe plastic, practicing mindful consumption by keeping bottles cool, avoiding repeated use, and considering more durable alternatives like stainless steel or glass remains the best approach for long-term health and environmental sustainability. For those who choose bottled water for convenience, the Kirkland Signature brand is a safe and reliable option.
