Good to Know: Perplexing Plastic Puzzle

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Reusable water bottles are standard for hydration-conscious guzzlers, yet ironically they’re fraught with health concerns. Take this quiz to see how bottle savvy you are.

1. What’s to worry with reusable water bottles?
a) They may alter the taste of the water.
b) They may harbor bacteria.
c) They may leach harmful chemicals into the water you drink.
d) Both b and c

2. Which two health problems have reusable polycarbonate bottles (Lexan) been linked to?
a) pregnancy abnormalities in mice
b) stomach upset
c) hormone-related problems

3. How should a reusable plastic water bottle be cared for?
a) Keep refilling it.
b) Run it through the dishwasher after every use.
c) Wash it by hand after every use.

4. When is it time to throw out a plastic reusable water bottle?
a) When it breaks.
b) Never. Bottles usually get lost before they need to be disposed of.
c) When the plastic appears cloudy, cracked, or etched.
d) When the water tastes funny.

5. What’s the best water container?
a) a Thermos
b) a plastic water bottle
c) a goat bladder
d) a metal canteen

ANSWERS

1. d) When water bottles aren’t properly washed, health-threatening bacteria grow. Also, scientists are investigating whether reusable plastic bottles, especially those made of polycarbonate plastics such as Lexan (labeled #7 on the bottom), may leach harmful chemicals into water. (The popular clear, sturdy bottles, including the Nalgene brand, are made of Lexan.) In addition, PVC containers are a leaching hazard.