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26/05/12
Whether plastic cups can be used with confidence depends on the material label on the bottom
Whether a plastic cup is safe to use depends on the material label on the bottom. Look for materials like #5 PP, Tritan, or PPSU, which are the safest. They can hold hot water and are less likely to release harmful substances. #1 PET and #7 PC are recommended for use only with cold drinks or avoid using them for boiling water.
Whether a plastic cup is safe to use depends on the material label on the bottom. Look for materials like #5 PP, Tritan, or PPSU, which are the safest. They can hold hot water and are less likely to release harmful substances. #1 PET and #7 PC are recommended for use only with cold drinks or avoid using them for boiling water.
Which materials can hold hot water?
#5 PP: This is the most recommended everyday material. It can withstand temperatures from 110℃ to 150℃ and is microwave-safe. Commonly found in baby bottles and lunchboxes, it's fine for hot coffee and tea.
Tritan and PPSU: These are high-end, safer materials. They are BPA-free and have better heat resistance. PPSU can even withstand temperatures above 180℃. They are transparent like glass and suitable for babies or people with high safety requirements, but they are slightly more expensive.
Choose PC and PET materials with caution: #1 PET, commonly found in mineral water bottles, has a heat resistance of only 70℃. Filling it with hot water can easily cause deformation and release harmful substances. #7 PC material may release bisphenol A (BPA) at high temperatures; national regulations prohibit its use in the production of infant plastic cups, and adults are advised to avoid filling them with boiling water.
#6 PS material: Commonly found in disposable hot drink cup lids, it has a heat resistance of approximately 90℃. Microwaving is not recommended. Although qualified products pose a low risk at normal drinking temperatures, it's best not to drink scalding hot beverages directly from the lid. How to choose with confidence:
Check the triangle label at the bottom: Turn the cup over and look at the bottom. Cups with the number 5 or 7 (marked Tritan or PPSU) inside the triangle are safe to buy. Cups with the numbers 1, 6, or 7 (marked PC) should be carefully considered for their intended use; avoid filling them with hot water.
Check for proper labeling: Legitimate products will have a QS mark, production license number, and applicable standard (such as GB 4806.7). The cup will be free of impurities and odors, and will not easily deform when squeezed. Avoid buying products without proper labeling.
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