No. 1 PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
Commonly found in mineral water bottles, carbonated beverage bottles, etc. It deforms easily when exposed to heat above 70°C and may leach substances harmful to the human body. After 10 months of use, No. 1 plastic products may release the carcinogen DEHP. Do not leave them in a car exposed to sunlight; do not use them to store alcohol, oil, or similar substances.
No. 2 HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
Commonly found in white medicine bottles, cleaning product containers, and bath product bottles. Do not reuse these as drinking cups or storage containers for other items. Do not reuse if they cannot be thoroughly cleaned.
No. 3 PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
Commonly found in raincoats, construction materials, plastic films, plastic boxes, etc. Due to its excellent plasticity and low cost, it is widely used, though it only withstands heat up to 81°C. Harmful substances can be released at high temperatures, so it is rarely used for food packaging. It is difficult to clean and prone to residue retention; do not reuse. Do not purchase if used to contain beverages.
No. 4 PE (Polyethylene)
Commonly found in cling film, plastic wrap, etc. Harmful substances are produced at high temperatures; if toxins enter the body through food, they may cause conditions such as breast cancer or congenital defects in newborns. Do not use cling film in the microwave.
No. 5 PP (Polypropylene)
Commonly found in soy milk bottles, yogurt bottles, fruit juice bottles, and microwave-safe food containers. With a melting point as high as 167°C, it is the only type of plastic container suitable for microwave use and can be reused after careful cleaning. Note that some microwave-safe containers have a body made of No. 5 PP but a lid made of No. 1 PE; since PE cannot withstand high temperatures, the lid should not be placed in the microwave along with the container body.
