What is the safest plastic to use for food storage?

What’s the Safest Plastic for Food Storage?

When it comes to storing food safely, not all plastics are created equal. The key is knowing which types are designed to handle contact with what you eat—and which ones to avoid.

PET or PETE (Recycling #1), short for polyethylene terephthalate, is one of the safest and most common plastics used for food storage. You’ll find it in beverage bottles, water jugs, and many food-grade containers. It’s lightweight, strong, and designed for single use. While effective, experts recommend not reusing PET containers repeatedly, especially with hot liquids or in the dishwasher, as heat can cause them to degrade and potentially leach chemicals over time.

HDPE (Recycling #2), or high-density polyethylene, is another top choice. This durable, opaque plastic is commonly used for milk jugs, juice bottles, and some yogurt tubs. Resistant to heat and less likely to leach chemicals, HDPE is considered one of the safest plastics for long-term food storage. It’s also highly recyclable, making it an environmentally friendlier option.

While other plastics exist, these two—PET and HDPE—are widely recognized by health and safety agencies as the most reliable for food contact. The bottom line? Check the recycling number on the bottom of the container. Stick with #1 (PET) for short-term use and #2 (HDPE) for repeated or longer-term storage. Avoid plastics labeled #3 (PVC), #6 (polystyrene), and #7 (unless specified as safe), as they may contain harmful additives like phthalates or bisphenol A (BPA).

Simple choices make a big difference. When in doubt, opt for glass or stainless steel—but when plastic is the way to go, PET and HDPE are your safest bets.