Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic chemical used primarily to create hard, clear polycarbonate plastic and epoxy resins. Since the 1960s, this material has been used in a wide range of consumer products, including certain food and beverage containers. BPA can leach from the plastic into the water or food it contains, especially when exposed to heat or wear. Because BPA is an endocrine-disrupting chemical, consumers seek water packaging and storage options that eliminate this risk.
Understanding Plastic Resin Codes
The first step in identifying BPA-free water containers is interpreting the Resin Identification Code (RIC), the number inside the chasing arrows symbol typically found on the bottom of a plastic product. This number, ranging from 1 to 7, identifies the specific polymer used. Most plastics used for water storage are inherently BPA-free because they do not utilize the chemical in their production.
A bottle is generally BPA-free if it displays codes #1, #2, #4, or #5. Code #1 is Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETE), used for most single-use water bottles. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) (#2) and Polypropylene (PP) (#5) are also widely used and do not contain BPA.
The code requiring the most scrutiny is #7, the “Other” category for plastics not fitting the first six classifications. This broad group often includes polycarbonate plastic, which typically contains BPA. While some modern #7 plastics, like Tritan, are marketed as BPA-free, the presence of the #7 code requires seeking explicit “BPA-Free” labeling to confirm the material’s safety.
Identifying BPA-Free Bottled Water
Water in most single-serving plastic bottles is safe because nearly all containers are made from PET (resin code #1). Since this material does not use BPA in manufacturing, the risk of exposure from a standard bottle is negligible. The primary concern shifts to larger, reusable containers, such as the three- or five-gallon jugs used for office water coolers.
These large-format bottles historically used polycarbonate, the plastic that contains BPA and falls under the #7 resin code. Due to consumer demand, many water companies have transitioned to alternative plastics, such as PET or Tritan, and explicitly label the bottles with a “BPA-Free” sticker. Always look for this explicit labeling on large jugs, especially if the plastic appears hard and clear, which is characteristic of polycarbonate.
For consumers who drink municipal tap water, direct exposure to BPA from the water source is not a concern. Potential exposure only occurs if the water is stored in a personal container made from polycarbonate plastic. When refilling bottles, always check the bottom for the resin code or manufacturer’s mark to ensure the material does not contain BPA.
Non-Plastic Alternatives for Storage
Switching to non-plastic alternatives for water storage and transport is the most direct solution to eliminate concerns about bisphenol chemicals. Glass bottles are an excellent option for home and office use, as they are non-porous and do not impart flavor changes to the water. While glass is fragile, some products are protected with silicone sleeves for durability.
Stainless steel is a popular and durable choice, particularly for portable water bottles used during travel or exercise. Food-grade stainless steel (such as 18/8 or 18/10) is inert, meaning it will not leach chemicals into the water and is resistant to impact. For large-scale home storage, ceramic water dispensers or crocks offer a non-plastic option that naturally keeps water cool.