PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is a type of plastic that is commonly used in food and beverage containers. It is also recyclable, which means that it can be melted down and turned into new products. However, there is some debate about whether or not recycled PET plastic is safe. Some people believe that it can leach harmful chemicals into food and beverages, while others believe that it is safe to use.

Is Recycled Pet Plastic Safe?

What is Recycled PET Plastic?

Recycled PET plastic is made from PET plastic that has been collected from recycling bins and sorted. The plastic is then cleaned and melted down into pellets, which can be used to make new products.

Recycled PET plastic is often used to make new food and beverage containers, as well as other products such as clothing, carpets, and insulation.

Is Recycled PET Plastic Safe?

The safety of recycled PET plastic has been a subject of debate for many years. Some people believe that it can leach harmful chemicals into food and beverages, while others believe that it is safe to use.

There is some evidence to support the claim that recycled PET plastic can leach harmful chemicals. For example, a study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology found that recycled PET plastic can leach antimony, a toxic metal, into food and beverages. The study also found that the amount of antimony that leaches from recycled PET plastic can increase over time.

However, other studies have found that recycled PET plastic is safe to use. For example, a study published in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology found that recycled PET plastic does not leach harmful chemicals into food and beverages. The study also found that recycled PET plastic is not harmful to human health.

The Verdict

The evidence on the safety of recycled PET plastic is mixed. Some studies have found that it can leach harmful chemicals, while others have found that it is safe to use. More research is needed to determine whether or not recycled PET plastic is safe.

In the meantime, consumers who are concerned about the safety of recycled PET plastic can choose to avoid products that are made from it.