In a recent publication by the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), concerns surrounding the safety of PET bottles were addressed in detail. The report tackled common consumer questions regarding potential health risks posed by these containers, particularly focusing on hormonal effects, chemical migration, and taste alterations in bottled beverages.
Table of Contents
Assessing the Hormonal Risk
One of the most persistent worries among the public is whether PET bottles can leach hormone-like substances into beverages. This fear originated from research involving cell cultures and aquatic organisms, where some samples of mineral water stored in PET containers showed weak oestrogenic activity. However, these levels were extremely low; About 10,000 times less potent than what is naturally present in products like milk or wine.
More importantly, no significant difference was found between water stored in PET and that stored in glass when it came to hormonal effects. In addition, chemical testing did not identify any substances in the PET-stored water that could explain the low levels of hormonal activity detected. Based on this evidence, the institute sees no indication that PET bottles pose a hormonal hazard to consumers.
Manufacturing Substances: Antimony and Plasticisers
In the production of PET, antimony-based catalysts may be used. Antimony is a naturally occurring element with very weak oestrogen-like properties. Studies have measured antimony concentrations in mineral water at up to 2 micrograms per litre, far below the maximum migration limit of 40 micrograms per kilogram set by European regulations. These levels are not considered dangerous.
A common misunderstanding links PET with plasticisers from the orthophthalate group, which are chemicals known for their hormonal activity. However, these plasticisers are not used in making PET bottles. On rare occasions when such substances have been found in bottled water, the quantities were so low that they could not account for any significant hormonal effect.
Bisphenol A: Presence and Impact
Bisphenol A (BPA) is another substance known for its hormonal activity and is often associated with concerns about plastic packaging. However, BPA is not used in the production of PET. Small traces of BPA have been detected in some PET bottles, particularly those made from recycled material. While minor amounts of BPA can migrate into the beverage, these levels remain well below the tolerable daily intake threshold established by the BfR, indicating no meaningful risk to health.
The Taste Factor
Despite its apparent safety, consumers occasionally report a sweet or fruity flavor in mineral water bottled in PET containers. This taste is typically due to the presence of acetaldehyde, a byproduct that forms during bottle manufacturing and storage. Even at concentrations significantly lower than the legally allowed limit of 6 milligrams per kilogram, acetaldehyde can be noticeable to the human senses.
While this substance is not considered harmful at the levels found in bottled beverages, its presence can affect taste and therefore the perceived quality of the product. This is classified as a sensory flaw rather than a health issue.
Industry Responsibility and Consumer Rights
Although acetaldehyde doesn’t pose a health threat in the quantities present, its effect on the taste of bottled water is recognized as a quality issue, with manufacturers expected to take technical measures to prevent it. These might include incorporating additives that bind acetaldehyde or applying inner coatings to the bottles that block its migration. If a consumer detects an off-taste due to this compound, they have the right to return the product.
Conclusion
The BfR’s assessment provides reassurance that PET bottles do not present a health risk under current usage conditions. Neither hormone-like effects nor harmful chemical migration have been confirmed at levels that would impact human health. The minor sensory issues that can arise, such as off-taste due to acetaldehyde, are not dangerous but are considered defects that should be addressed by manufacturers. Consumers can continue to use PET bottles without concern, while also expecting product quality standards to be maintained.
