Dr Manish Singhal - The best Cancer Specialist in Delhi
Can drinking out of a plastic water bottle cause cancer?
After many pieces of research and tests, many specialists have claimed that there is a solid link between plastic bottles and cancer, as the chemical present in the plastic can lead to many types of cancers. But truth be told, there is no strong and convincing evidence exist that can prove the statement.
Some studies have also shown that a small amount of chemical present in the plastic can end up mixing in the foods and drinks but at a very small scale. Basically, it depends on how well you keep your container or bottle clean and moreover, what the type of your plastic is. There are a
numerous number of plastics exist that carries distinctive effects. The most rumored cancer-causing chemicals in plastics are di-Ethylhexyl adipate (DEHA) and di-Ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), but again, there is no strong evidence found of them being carcinogenic which means
cancer causing.
- Plastics in Bottles
There is no denying in the fact that majority of people utilize plastic bottles on a regular basis and honestly, there is no need to be concern whether they harm us or not. Unless and until the plastic bottle is well maintained and clean, it is safe to use for drinking purpose. The freezing
water in the bottles have anyways contains fewer chances of grabbing any chemical, but what you need to take care of is the correct temperature. The hot temperature of the bottle may release chemicals which could be harmful.
- Plastics in Containers
Plastics in food containers are generally made of from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). And when you wrap and heat the food inside the microwave with these plastics, it tends to release few chemicals into the food. But these are most common in fatty foods such as meat and cheese. But many specialists stated that this cannot be considered as enough evidence to suggest that plastics cause cancer.
- Safety Concerns
Although, there is no strong evidence exists to justify the connection between plastics and cancers, yet it’s always good to be on the safer side. Here are some things you should consider before and during the use of plastic bottles and containers:
- Don’t use plastic containers for heating purpose in the microwave unless it is specially labeled as microwave safe.
- Similarly, do not any plastic containers that are not meant for cooking, these can be pretty harmful.
- Do not use plastic containers that are not meant to store food, for example, containers used to keep cosmetics.
- Use heat-proof glass, ceramic or stainless steel containers for hot food or drinks. Do not use stainless steel in the microwave.