The Plastic Dilemma
We live in a plastic dominant world and there is a lot of confusion surrounding the “numbers” associated with different types of plastic and which are safest. We at Tilvee use very little plastic, after all who wants a natural, pure, organic creme only to be packaged in plastic that will leach chemicals and turn it into a toxic concoction!
Here is a quick breakdown of plastics:
The worst ones
- Number 3- PVC Plastic (anything Vinyl)- Shower curtains, Plastic wrap, Baby teethers, Rubber duckie, soft plastic cosmetic pouches, “new car smell”. PROBLEM- Releases something called Phthalates which are considered a hormone disruptor. It blocks testosterone which is particularly harmful to males and causes birth defects.
- Number 6-PS or Polystyrene (hard plastic as well as foam). PROBLEM-Considered carcinogenic! Reproductive toxicity, immune system toxicity, Neuro toxicity.
- Number 7-PC or Polycarbonate- Bisphenol A (BPA) is used in the plastic (such as Baby Bottles and in some can linings). BPA is a known hormone disruptor that leaches at up to 55 times the rate when heated (think about heating baby bottles! Scary). Even when not heated it leaches harmful chemicals into food, drinks, skin care, etc.
- Number 1 and 2- PET and HDPE- Considered safe for one time use only as they may leach when exposed to UV, heat or over time they break down naturally.
- Number 4-LDPE-Potentially toxic chemicals are used in its manufacturing which may be toxic to the environment. Considered a safer choice in its “end product” use but not very eco-friendly at all.
- Number 5-PP- Considered the safest plastic. It is heat resistant and unlikely to leach even when exposed to heat or hot liquids. It can be reused safely.
BOTTOM LINE: Its hard to remember all the numbers and details so this is what I think to myself, little phrases to help me out. 5 is the safest so…”5 may keep me alive”. “4 has the second score” “1 and 2 are for one time use”.


