Are Nalgene Water Bottles Safe? The Health Concerns of Plastic Use

In summary, many people have nalgene water bottles due to their durability and convenience. However, recent research has shown that the bottles may contain bisphenol-A, a chemical that can cause health issues. While the manufacturer claims their product is safe, it is recommended to limit exposure by not leaving liquids in the bottle for extended periods of time and avoiding heating the bottle. Other alternatives, such as using glass or metal bottles, may also be considered.
  • #1
cepheid
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
Gold Member
5,199
38
Two questions:

1. What is the big deal about nalgene water bottles? Why do so many people have them? Is it their durability...something about the material?

And now, to get more on topic for this forum:

2. Despite not knowing the driving force behind the fad...I bought one myself (yeah, I know, I'm stupid). I realized that I wasn't drinking enough fluids, and thought that staying properly hydrated would allow me to think better and combat the fatigue I encounter often during the semester. Having a one litre bottle would at least encourage me to drink one litre of water per day. But recently I ran across some web articles stating that recent research has shown that the bottles leak a chemical called bisphenol-A, which can cause chromosomal disorders, and is an "endocrine inhibitor", whatever that means. Does anyone know for sure whether these bottles are safe? Should I be drinking one litre of water per day from one?
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
See https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=57207 for a discussion on "endocrine disruptors", which are organic molecules that have similar structures to normal hormones and compete for sites that will then block the normal endocrine process.

Polyethylene terephthalic acid plastics (polymers) are used in a lot of drinking water bottles, and apparently recent studies may indicate that PET is being found in the water and perhaps may be in poeple.

Edit: I made a correction to the chemistry. To my limited knowlegde, polyterephthalate is not used for drinking water containers, and probably not for food containers.

Since I posted this, I found - http://www.mindfully.org/Plastic/Polyethylene/Polyethylene-Terephthalate-Sheftel.htm [Broken]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
cepheid said:
Does anyone know for sure whether these bottles are safe? Should I be drinking one litre of water per day from one?

Here is the site, from the manufacturer, regarding their take on the issue of BPA in their product. http://www.nalgene-outdoor.com/technical/bpaInfo.html [Broken] Admittedly this is the manufacturers site and it could be biased since they only have to put up the info they want, but it appears to be from rather varied and well-known sources, so take it for what it is.

The real issue is not if BPA or like chemicals are dangerous, laboratory studies have already demonstrated this, but those are highly controlled studies, typically giving higher than normal concentrations to which you or I might be exposed to. I'm not all that familiar with the plasticizers literature so I'll take some time to sift through it and get back on that.

Having said that, if you are still concerned, here's what should work to potentially reduce your exposure/risk, again with a disclaimer that this is mostly my opinion based on common-sense science. If possible don't leave the liquid you are consuming in the container for extended periods of time. If the products are indeed leeching BPA, etc., the less time in the bottle, the less contamination. I would also avoid heating (microwaving) products in these containers as this may also increase leeching. One may go as far as considering the solubility properties of BPA in various liquids as dictated by their pH, fat/alcohol content, etc. Personally I use these bottles regularly and find them a convenient way to stay hydrated without shelling out money for bottled water.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #4
I'm not really sure about whether BPA leeching from those bottles is a problem or not, but I would tend to think it isn't a huge problem. The reason is that Nalgene brand bottles are quite frequently used in laboratories, and if they were leeching compounds, especially harmful compounds, into the solutions contained in them, you'd have a lot of angry researchers refusing to use their products.

Personally, I've never had a problem with using a glass or ceramic mug to obtain some water from the tap for drinking when I get thirsty. Or, if a glass isn't available, cupped hands work too if you're really desperate for a quick drink. :biggrin:
 
  • #5
^Yes, I know what you mean. Why not just use the water fountain on campus? Answer...because the water is usually quite gross, and there is sign above some of the fountains that says "flush for 10 minutes before drinking" (I kid you not!). Our municipal water supply is perfectly safe for drinking, so what the hell is in our campus pipes that would prompt them to put up that sign, and who in his/her right mind would stand there for 10 minutes? I realize it might be student prank...but the signs have been there forever, so you'd think somebody would deal with it if it were. :rolleyes:
 
  • #6
You could always buy one of those metal bottles they make for hikers. The cap is plastic unfortunately, but that's all the plastic there is.
 

1. What are the health risks associated with using plastic products?

Plastics have been linked to a variety of health issues, such as hormonal disruptions, reproductive problems, and certain types of cancer. This is because many plastics contain chemicals that can leach into our food and water, especially when they are heated or exposed to sunlight.

2. Are all types of plastics equally harmful to our health?

No, not all plastics are equally harmful. Some types, such as polypropylene and high-density polyethylene, are considered safer because they are less likely to leach harmful chemicals. However, all plastics have the potential to release harmful substances, especially when they are exposed to heat or UV rays.

3. How can we reduce our exposure to plastics and their potential health risks?

One way to reduce exposure to plastics is to avoid using them whenever possible. This can include using glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic ones, choosing products with minimal packaging, and avoiding heating food in plastic containers. Additionally, recycling and properly disposing of plastic products can also help minimize the health risks associated with plastic.

4. Are there any regulations in place to protect consumers from the health risks of plastics?

In many countries, there are regulations in place to limit the use of certain chemicals in plastic products. For example, the European Union has banned the use of bisphenol A (BPA) in baby bottles, and many countries have restricted the use of phthalates in certain products. However, these regulations vary and may not cover all types of plastics or all potential health risks.

5. Can we completely eliminate our use of plastics to avoid health issues?

While it may be difficult to completely eliminate the use of plastics in our daily lives, there are steps we can take to reduce our plastic consumption and minimize our exposure to potential health risks. This can include choosing reusable and sustainable options, properly disposing of plastic products, and advocating for stricter regulations on plastics. It is also important to stay informed and educate ourselves about the potential health risks associated with plastics.

Similar threads

Replies
21
Views
2K
Replies
47
Views
7K
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • General Discussion
2
Replies
37
Views
7K
  • General Discussion
2
Replies
47
Views
9K
Back
Top