Each plastic container or bottle has a recycling symbol from 1 to 7 inside the triangle. You might not think of these symbols, but they can actually provide a lot of information about the toxic chemicals used in plastics, the biodegradability of plastics, the potential for leaching of plastics, and the safety of plastics.
If you've been concerned, knowing the differences between plastic types will help you make better decisions when choosing and recycling plastic. Below is information about the various recycling symbols and numbers. How do you know which plastic is safe for you? found here:
Plastic #1 – PETE or PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
The PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic bottle was invented in the United States in 1973 by DuPont engineer Nathaniel Wyeth and was invented by the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle. This is the first plastic bottle capable of withstanding the pressure of carbonated liquids.
PET or PETE is commonly recycled into tote bags, furniture, carpets, paneling, fibers and polar fleece. It is used in the manufacture of bottled water, juices, soft drinks, mouthwashes, sports drinks and containers for dressings for salad dressings, jellies, ketchups and jams. Polyethylene terephthalate is considered safe, but can actually leach the toxic metal antimony.
Plastic No. 1 is for single use only. As a precaution, these bottles should not be reused or heated, and should only be recycled for new secondary products such as fabrics, carpets or plastic lumber. Some studies have found levels of antimony, a toxic chemical, released from water bottles that have been placed in a heat source for extended periods of time. Even if PETE doesn't contain BPA or phthalates, always make sure your kettle isn't abusing the temperature.
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