Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene is cherished for its heat resistance, tensile strength, toughness, flexibility, and resistance to fatigue (constant bending) as a thermoplastic polymer. Chemicals cannot leach from it, making it one of the safest plastics. Microwaveable kitchenware, yoghurt containers, and baby bottles contain it.
A popular plastic material, Polypropylene is used around the globe. In addition to packaging, equipment, electrical, household appliances, and automotive manufacturing, it has spread widely since 1957. The amount of PP produced today is around 55 million metric tons per year.
Because Polypropylene is unlikely to leach any chemicals into foods or beverages that it might contain, it has been hailed as being extremely safe. In addition, the high heat resistance of the material makes it a good choice for applications involving heat (such as the microwave).
This material is commonly found on grocery store shelves due to its food safety rating, heat resistance, and flexibility. We find this interesting feature on many bottles and containers called a “living hinge” in the condiments industry. You won’t lose the lid while opening or closing them!
Polyethylene (PE)
Among thermoplastic polymers, polyethylene (PE) is the most widely used. Available in a variety of formulations and grades, it can be customized to meet any requirements.
Polyethylenes are generally chemically and impact-resistant, electrically conductive, and offer very low coefficients of friction. It is also lightweight and easy to process, and polyethylene absorbs a low amount of moisture unlike other materials.
Polyethylene is found in most plastic items, including containers, bottles, bags, and toys.
Does PE have a toxic effect?
Physically, no. Food handling often involves polyethylene. Inhalation or ingesting the vapor or liquid (e.g., during manufacturing) could cause toxic effects.
Polycarbonate (PC)
Polycarbonate offers remarkable transparency and high impact resistance for applications requiring the use of transparent plastics. It also provides a natural UV filter as a less heavy alternative to glass, so eyewear is often constructed using it.
Baby bottles and sippy cups are always thrown on the ground, so it is good to use tough, impact-resistant plastic like polycarbonate. A common application is to line metal containers with them.
Many reports have stated that polycarbonate containers leach BPA into the food they contain. The situation is particularly hazardous when the contents of the container are hot or heated in a microwave or with boiling water.
Most people know that BPA can mimic estrogen in the body, making it a toxin. In addition, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease have been linked to the substance.
Silicones
Silicones, or polysiloxanes, are an assortment of fluids, resins, and elastomers made from chains of silicon and oxygen molecules.
In addition to reactive silanes, silicone fluids, and silicone polymers, silicones are a diverse family of high-performance speciality materials widely used in various consumer and industrial products.
Chemical inertness, resistance to water and oxidation, and stability at low and high temperatures are reasons that grease, electrical wire insulation, and biomedical implants (such as breast implants) find applications in many areas.
Does silicone harm humans?
Humans generally tolerate siloxanes (silicones) well, and they are used extensively in modern medical technologies, nursing care, and health care. Humans and the environment are generally thought of as non-toxic or toxic only in very small amounts.