Every day, we use countless plastic products — but do you know which types are truly safe for your health and your family?
This article provides a complete overview of the 7 most common types of plastics and explains the plastic safety symbols you should recognize.
1. Overview of the 7 Most Common Plastics
Table of Contents
According to the American Plastics Industry Association, plastics are classified into six main categories plus a seventh group containing other types.
These plastics are divided into two main safety groups:
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Safe plastics: PET or PETE, HDPE, LDPE, PP
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Unsafe plastics: PVC or V, PS, PC, and other mixed types
These categories are identified by standard recycling codes under ASTM D7611, printed on nearly all plastic products worldwide.
2. Safe Plastics for Food and Health
Plastic #1 – PET or PETE (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
PET is one of the most commonly used plastics, found in bottled water, soft drink bottles, cooking oil containers, and food packaging.
Although PET itself is non-toxic and stable at room temperature, it should not be reused or exposed to heat, as it can deform and release chemical residues.
Avoid:
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Storing hot liquids or foods in PET bottles
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Leaving PET bottles in cars under sunlight
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Reusing PET bottles multiple times
PET has low recyclability (about 20%) and may retain small amounts of BPA residues from manufacturing.
Plastic #2 – HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
HDPE is considered the safest plastic for human health.
It’s used in baby bottles, medicine containers, food jars, and cosmetic packaging.
Key features:
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High strength and impact resistance
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Withstands up to 120°C short-term or 110°C long-term
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Chemically inert, non-toxic, and does not leach harmful substances
HDPE is durable, reusable, and safe for food storage, making it a top choice for health-conscious consumers.
Plastic #4 – LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene)
LDPE is similar to HDPE but softer and less dense, used for plastic bags, squeezable bottles, wrapping films, and disposable food containers.
LDPE is chemically stable and safe but has poor heat resistance and is mostly used for single-use items due to low recyclability.
Plastic #5 – PP (Polypropylene)
Polypropylene is one of the most food-safe and eco-friendly plastics.
It’s used in yogurt cups, syrup bottles, straws, baby food jars, and microwavable containers.
Highlights:
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Heat resistant up to 130°C
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Can be used safely in microwaves (under controlled temperature)
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Chemically inert and non-toxic
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Easily recyclable
PP is durable, semi-transparent, and ideal for long-term food storage. Experts recommend PP for household use due to its excellent thermal and chemical stability.
3. Unsafe Plastics to Avoid
Plastic #3 – PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC is inexpensive and flexible but contains harmful additives such as phthalates and DEHA, which can leach toxins when heated.
Common in plastic wraps, raincoats, construction pipes, and medical equipment, PVC should never be used for hot foods or cooking.
Do not use cling film (plastic wrap) in high temperatures, as it can release toxic compounds.
Plastic #6 – PS (Polystyrene)
PS is lightweight and cheap, found in foam food boxes, disposable cups, plates, and spoons.
When exposed to heat or acidic foods, PS releases toxic chemicals and can cause health problems.
Polystyrene is also difficult to recycle and environmentally harmful, so it is not recommended for long-term or food-contact use.
Plastic #7 – PC (Polycarbonate) and Others
PC plastics and mixed resins often contain Bisphenol A (BPA) — a known endocrine disruptor linked to cancer and hormonal disorders.
They are commonly used in chemical storage tanks, water dispensers, and insulation materials, not for food or beverage use.
Most recycling programs do not accept #7 plastics due to safety risks and processing challenges.
4. BPA – The Hidden Danger in Plastics
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic compound used in the production of some plastics and resins.
It can leach into food and beverages, especially when heated, and has been classified by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) since 2017.
BPA exposure risks include:
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Cancer (breast, neurological, etc.)
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Thyroid dysfunction
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Nervous system damage
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Asthma and bronchitis
Always choose BPA-free products labeled with safe plastic codes (1, 2, 4, or 5).
5. Summary: Plastic Safety Codes at a Glance
| Plastic Code | Type | Safety | Common Uses | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | PET/PETE | Safe | Beverage bottles, food jars | Single use only |
| #2 | HDPE | Safe | Milk bottles, baby bottles | Reusable |
| #3 | PVC | Unsafe | Pipes, plastic wrap | Contains phthalates |
| #4 | LDPE | Safe | Bags, wraps | Single-use only |
| #5 | PP | Safe | Food containers | Heat-resistant |
| #6 | PS | Unsafe | Styrofoam boxes, cups | Toxic when heated |
| #7 | PC & others | Unsafe | Chemical containers | Contains BPA |
6. Conclusion
Understanding plastic safety symbols helps protect your health and the environment.
Choose plastics labeled 1 (PET), 2 (HDPE), 4 (LDPE), or 5 (PP) for safe and responsible use — and avoid 3, 6, and 7whenever possible.
By making small, informed choices, you can reduce exposure to toxic substances, encourage recycling, and promote sustainable living.