Wellness Wednesday: Plastic bottled water vs glass bottled water
The choice between glass and plastic bottled water does not necessarily impact the water’s intrinsic health benefits. Both glass and plastic bottles can be used to contain safe drinking water. However, there are some considerations that may make one more preferable than the other depending on your priorities:
- Chemical leaching: Plastic bottles can sometimes leach chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA) or phthalates, into the water, especially if the bottles are exposed to heat or sunlight. Glass bottles do not leach any harmful chemicals into the water.
- Environmental impact: Glass is generally considered more environmentally friendly than plastic because it is recyclable and does not contribute to the issue of plastic pollution. However, glass is heavier and requires more energy to produce and transport, which can increase its carbon footprint.
- Taste: Some people argue that water stored in glass bottles tastes better because it doesn’t retain any flavors from the packaging material, as can happen with certain plastics.
- Durability: Glass is more fragile than plastic and can break easily, posing safety concerns. Plastic bottles are lighter and less prone to breakage.
Ultimately, the choice between glass and plastic bottled water depends on your personal preferences, priorities, and values. If you are concerned about potential chemical leaching and environmental impact, you may prefer glass. However, both options can be part of a healthy lifestyle if the water source is safe and the bottles are properly stored and handled. Additionally, using reusable water bottles made from materials like stainless steel or BPA-free plastics is another environmentally friendly option to consider.
