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, it may release the carcinogen DEHP. Do not leave it in a car exposed to sunlight; do not use it 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 as a drinking cup or as a storage container for other items. Do not reuse if not thoroughly cleaned.
No. 3 PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
Commonly found in raincoats, construction materials, plastic wrap, plastic boxes, etc. It is widely used due to its excellent plasticity and low cost, but it is heat-resistant only up to 81°C. Harmful substances can be released at high temperatures; 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 hold 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 put cling film in the microwave.
No. 5 PP (Polypropylene)
Commonly found in soy milk bottles, yogurt bottles, fruit juice bottles, and microwaveable food containers. It has a melting point of up to 167°C and is the only type of plastic container suitable for microwave use; it can be reused after careful cleaning. Note that some microwaveable 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.
No. 6 PS (Polystyrene)
Commonly found in instant noodle bowls and fast-food containers. Do not place in the microwave, as excessive heat can cause the release of chemicals. It decomposes to release carcinogens when holding acidic (e.g., orange juice) or alkaline substances. Avoid using these containers to pack piping hot food. Do not cook instant noodle bowls in the microwave.
No. 7 PC (Other)
Commonly found in water bottles, sports bottles, and baby bottles. Department stores often use water bottles made of this material as promotional gifts. They easily release the toxic substance Bisphenol A (BPA), which is harmful to human health. Do not heat them or expose them to direct sunlight during use.