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Researchers have observed the water contained in sports water bottles. 24 hours later, they detected more than 400 compounds related to plastic as well as more than 3500 compounds related to products used for the dishwasher.
Reusable plastic bottles, a bad idea? Researchers from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark wanted to take a closer look at the possible migration of chemicals from these gourds into the water they contain. To do this, the scientists studied drinking water stored in new reusable bottles, bottles used for about a year two to three times a week, and bottles before and after going through the dishwasher. The study published in January 2022 in the journal Science Direct reveals the results.
After leaving tap water in these containers for 24 hours at room temperature, the study authors detected more than 400 plastic-related compounds as well as more than 3,500 compounds related to products used for dishwashers. Most of the compounds were oligomers, aromatic amines and photoinitiators, the latter being possible endocrine disruptors.
Plastic water bottles: thorough rinsing necessary
The highest toxicity rate was calculated with used plastic bottles filled directly after the dishwasher without any other type of rinsing. “In general, dishwasher-related compounds absorb more into plastic than glass and in particular some of the more difficult compounds to remove, even with an additional rinse with water afterwards,” indicates the report. “The study shows the importance of considering particular cleaning steps for plastic bottles”. In other words, the dishwasher wears out the plastic faster which increases the release of substances, this is leaching.
Researchers also point to biodegradable bottles. “This does not mean that the bottles are necessarily made of natural compounds” warns the study, on the contrary: “It can be assumed that plasticisers will migrate more easily into consumers’ drinking water when biodegradable plastic bottles degrade slowly during use”.
“Just because these substances are in the water doesn’t mean the water is toxic and affects us humans. But the problem is that we just don’t know. And in principle, it is not so good to drink soap scum or other chemicals”, balance Selina Tisler, lead author of the study. Before finding out more through further research, it is best to choose a glass water bottle.
Our selection of glass water bottles
A glass gourd makes it possible to store water in a healthier way and to preserve its taste. La Redoute offers, for example, a one-litre glass bottle with a bamboo cap to carry everywhere to avoid buying plastic bottles.
The gourd below spotted on Amazon is more practical for playing sports, because it is protected by a neoprene cover allowing it to be used everywhere and to be less fragile in the face of shocks. Its cap is made of stainless steel. It can be chosen in 500ml or in one liter format.
This gourd seen on Nature & Discoveries is made of glass, protected with silicone to avoid the risk of shock and burns, because it contains a removable filter to deposit tea and drink a hot drink. It has a capacity of 0.42L.
