Storing Alcohol: Plastic Bottle Safety

There are various opinions on whether it is safe to store alcohol in plastic water bottles. Some sources claim that alcohol can dissolve the plastic, causing consumers to ingest bits of plastic or harmful chemicals. Others claim that the alcohol content in whiskey, for example, is not high enough to dissolve the plastic, and that the degree of harm from drinking alcohol from a plastic bottle is similar to drinking other beverages like water or milk from plastic containers. Certain types of plastics commonly used in beverage bottling have been shown to leach trace amounts of BPA and other carcinogens when reused. It is recommended to use glass, aluminium, or stainless steel bottles for storing alcohol, as these materials are less likely to leach harmful chemicals.

Alcohol can dissolve plastic

The question of whether alcohol can dissolve plastic is a complicated one. While it is true that alcohol can dissolve plastic, the extent of this depends on several factors, including the type of plastic and the concentration of alcohol.

Firstly, it's important to understand that "plastic" is a broad term encompassing various materials, each with unique chemical properties. Some types of plastic are more resistant to alcohol than others. For instance, the plastic typically used for whiskey bottles is generally more durable than the flimsy plastic of disposable water bottles. Therefore, when it comes to storing alcohol in a plastic container, opting for a sturdier type of plastic is recommended.

The concentration of alcohol also plays a significant role in its ability to dissolve plastic. In the context of cleaning, a higher concentration of isopropyl alcohol (around 91%) can leave a white haze on plastic surfaces, indicating potential dissolution of the plastic material. However, diluting the isopropyl alcohol with water can reduce its solvent power while retaining its cleaning capabilities.

The duration of alcohol storage in plastic containers is another critical factor. While short-term storage may not cause significant issues, long-term exposure to alcohol can increase the likelihood of plastic dissolution. Additionally, alcohol can absorb undesirable flavours from plastic, impacting the taste of the beverage.

The potential health risks associated with ingesting dissolved plastic particles is a valid concern. Consuming alcohol that has been in contact with plastic may result in the ingestion of plastic or other harmful chemicals. However, it's worth noting that the health consequences of drinking alcohol from plastic are not drastically more severe than regularly consuming other beverages from plastic containers. Nonetheless, the use of BPA-free plastic for food and beverage packaging is becoming increasingly common to address these concerns.

In summary, alcohol can dissolve plastic, but the specific type of plastic, alcohol concentration, duration of storage, and potential health risks all play a role in understanding the complexities of this interaction. When storing alcohol in plastic containers, it is advisable to opt for sturdier plastics designed for beverage bottling and to prioritise short-term over long-term storage.

Plastic water bottles are unsafe for long-term alcohol storage

Some types of plastic, such as PET or PETE, have been shown to leach trace amounts of BPA, DEHP, and other carcinogens when reused. These chemicals can be harmful to human health, and ingesting them can have negative consequences. While alcohol itself is not healthy, the addition of these chemicals can further increase the health risks associated with consumption.

The alcohol in whiskey, for example, has the potential to dissolve the plastic in the bottle, releasing harmful chemicals into the liquid. This is a concern shared by many individuals, as evidenced by online discussions on the topic. The fear of ingesting dissolved plastic or harmful chemicals is not unfounded, and it is essential to consider the potential health risks associated with long-term alcohol storage in plastic water bottles.

While some people have reported storing alcohol in plastic water bottles for extended periods without apparent ill effects, this does not negate the potential health risks. The degree of harm caused by drinking alcohol stored in plastic may vary, but it is essential to recognize that the risks are present. As such, it is generally recommended to avoid using plastic water bottles for long-term alcohol storage and to opt for alternative containers, such as glass or stainless steel, which are safer and more suitable for this purpose.

Additionally, alcohol can pick up the plastic taste from the water bottle, negatively impacting the flavour of the beverage. This is especially true for vodka, which has a neutral taste and can easily absorb other flavours. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid using plastic water bottles for long-term alcohol storage to maintain the quality and taste of the beverage.

Plastic leaching: BPA, DEHP, and other toxins

Plastic leaching is a significant concern when storing alcohol in plastic bottles. Bisphenol A (BPA) and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) are two of the most commonly mentioned toxins that can leach from plastic. BPA is a known endocrine disruptor, which can interfere with hormonal balance and has been linked to various health issues, including reproductive problems and metabolic disorders. DEHP is another phthalate, a group of chemicals known for their potential endocrine-disrupting and carcinogenic effects.

While the degree of harm from drinking alcohol stored in plastic may not be drastically different from consuming other beverages from plastic, it is still a valid concern. Alcohol itself is not considered healthy, and consuming it entails accepting the associated health consequences. The additional health risks from plastic leaching, while not necessarily more consequential, should be considered.

Some plastics are better at handling alcohol than others. For example, the plastic used for whiskey bottles is generally sturdier than that of disposable water bottles. However, the specific type of plastic is essential. Certain types of plastics, such as PET or PETE, have been shown to leach trace amounts of BPA, DEHP, and other carcinogens when reused. On the other hand, plastics like HDPE, LDPE, and PP are considered safer alternatives for reusable water bottles.

The duration of alcohol storage in plastic also plays a role. Short-term storage may not be as problematic as long-term storage, where the risks of plastic leaching increase. Additionally, the alcohol's proof or percentage is a factor, with high-proof spirits more likely to dissolve plastic or interact negatively with it.

While there is ongoing development in creating plastic bottles with an inner layer to act as a barrier between alcohol and potential toxins, the consensus among distillers and experts is to avoid plastic for alcohol storage. Glass, stainless steel, or oak barrels are generally recommended as safer alternatives to ensure no plastic leaching occurs and to maintain the quality of the alcohol.

Glass, steel, or oak are better for storing alcohol

While it may be tempting to store alcohol in a plastic water bottle, especially for convenience or subtlety, it is not advisable. Plastic water bottles are typically made of flimsy plastic that is less suitable for handling alcohol than the plastic used for liquor bottles. Certain types of plastics commonly used in beverage bottling have been shown to leach trace amounts of BPA, DEHP, and other carcinogens when reused.

Instead, glass, steel, or oak are better options for storing alcohol. Glass is a suitable material for storing alcohol and can be sealed with a natural cork or a lid with a plastisol seal. Glass flasks are also recommended for long-term alcohol storage as they do not carry the same risk of imparting unpleasant flavours as steel flasks.

Steel flasks are a classic and convenient option for storing and transporting alcohol, especially for hard liquors like scotch, whiskey, rum, or vodka. They are lightweight, tough, and portable, making them ideal for on-the-go consumption. However, it is important to note that steel flasks are not intended for long-term alcohol storage as the liquor can pick up unpleasant metallic flavours over time. Steel flasks should also not be used for carbonated, acidic, or citrus-flavoured drinks as these can damage the metal.

Oak has traditionally been used for storing alcohol, particularly in the form of stoppers or corks for glass containers. However, oak stoppers can swell and break the necks of glass containers, so proper caution is necessary.

Overall, while plastic water bottles may be convenient for storing alcohol in certain situations, it is not a safe long-term solution due to potential health risks. Glass, steel, and oak are more suitable materials for storing alcohol, each with their own advantages and considerations.

Health risks of drinking alcohol from plastic

The potential health risks of drinking alcohol from plastic are influenced by several factors, including the type of plastic, the strength of the alcohol, and the duration of storage. While some plastics are considered safe for alcohol consumption, it's important to understand the risks associated with specific types of plastics to make informed choices.

Firstly, let's consider the type of plastic. Certain types of plastics commonly used in beverage bottling, such as PET or PETE, are generally recognized as safe for alcohol consumption, especially for short-term use. These plastics do not contain harmful chemicals like BPA (bisphenol-A) and are widely used in the food industry. PP plastic is another excellent option for alcohol consumption due to its durability and alcohol resistance. It is often used for mixed drinks and cocktails as it can withstand alcohol content, ice, and acidity without breaking down or affecting taste.

On the other hand, lower-quality plastics, such as polystyrene, may contain additives that can be broken down by alcohol through a process called leaching. This can result in small amounts of additives ending up in your drink, potentially altering its taste and posing possible health risks. The fear of alcohol dissolving plastic and ingesting harmful chemicals is not unfounded, as some studies have shown links between exposure to chemicals in plastics and adverse health effects, including potential impacts on hormones, fertility, increased cancer risks, and adverse effects on the immune system.

The strength and type of alcohol also play a role in the potential health risks. Sturdier plastics, such as the plastic used in whiskey bottles, are better equipped to handle alcohol than the flimsy plastic in disposable water bottles. However, the science behind how specific types of alcohol interact with different plastics is not yet fully understood, and the primary concern is not the complete dissolution of the bottle but the potential leaching of chemicals.

Additionally, the duration of storage is a crucial factor. While short-term storage in plastic may not pose significant problems, long-term storage increases the likelihood of chemical leaching and the potential for harmful health effects. Vodka, for example, can pick up a plastic taste if stored in plastic for an extended period, although it may be safe for a day or a short period of time.

In conclusion, while certain types of plastics are deemed safe for alcohol consumption, the potential health risks of drinking alcohol from plastic depend on various factors. To minimize health risks, it is recommended to opt for sturdier plastics designed for alcohol consumption, avoid long-term storage, and prioritize reducing the use of single-use plastics for beverages whenever possible.

Frequently asked questions