Whether you're ordering new plastic containers for your restaurant kitchen or new water bottles for personal use, you've probably seen products that boast "BPA free!". But what is BPA? And is it necessary to avoid it?BPA stands for bisphenol A, a chemical that has been used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics and resins since the 1950s. Concerns about this chemical began in the 1990s when customers began asking, "Is BPA safe?" Since then, several studies have attempted to link BPA to health problems, but the FDA has concluded that low levels of BPA exposure are not harmful to humans. Nonetheless, the U.S. and Canada have banned the use of BPA-containing baby bottles to prevent potentially negative effects on children, and many companies have voluntarily phased out BPA-containing adult water bottles in an effort to reassure worried consumers.

What plastics contain BPA?

While a certain amount of BPA is safe for humans to ingest on a daily basis, consumers should be aware of which plastics contain BPA and other potentially harmful chemicals. Plastics are categorized by resin codes that tell consumers how to recycle different types of plastics. The recycling numbers also correspond to the chemicals used to actually make the plastic. Keeping these numbers correct can be difficult, so this list will help you figure out which plastics are safe to use in a variety of different situations.

Polyterephthalic acid

Contains BPA: No

Used in: disposable water bottles, clothing (polyester)

Recycled in: pillow stuffing, plastic sheets, food containers

High-density polyethylene

Contains BPA: No

Used in: milk containers, detergent bottles, water bottles

Recycling: hair care bottles, motor oil bottles, outdoor fencing, recycling bins

Polyvinyl chloride

Contains BPA: No, but when heated, this plastic can release other chemicals into food

Used in: PVC pipe, outdoor fencing, medical tubing, heat shrink packaging

Recycled into: not commonly recycled

Low-density polyethylene

Contains BPA: No

Used in: bread bags, toys, squeeze bottles, adhesives

Recycled in: tiles, paneling, trash cans

Polypropylene

Contains BPA: No

Used in: yogurt containers, take-out containers, bottle caps, condiment bottles

Recycling: brooms, car battery boxes, storage bins, trays

Polystyrene

Contains BPA: No, but this plastic can release other chemicals into food when heated

Used in: all foam products (cups, plates, bowls and packing peanuts), coat hangers, toys

Recycled into: Uncommonly recycled

Other

Contains BPA: Plastic 7 may contain BPA. if it is not labeled "BPA free" it may contain BPA

Used in: large reusable water bottles, compostable disposables, other

Recycled into: Uncommon Recycling