Whether disposable plastic cups are made of PP, PET or PVC, from the disposable plastic cups, find the triangle logo to identify.

The disposable plastic cups have a triangle with an arrow at the bottom or the lid part. Inside there are Arabic numerals from 1-7. The different Arabic numerals represent the different properties and different uses of this plastic material.

It's like an ID for plastic products.

Expanded

Drinking hot beverages as little as possible with the "6" plastic cup lids

Polystyrene is a polymer synthesized by free radical polymerization of styrene monomer, which can be released after reaching a certain temperature by heat. In addition, as a plastic product, some auxiliary materials, i.e., other chemicals, are added during its production. Once the temperature exceeds a certain level, the chemicals may precipitate out, affecting human health.

It is reported that usually polystyrene is safer to use at 0-70℃. However, very often, the temperature of hot drinks often exceeds 70 degrees Celsius. At this point, it is possible to precipitate chemical components from the lid of the cup, long-term use affect human health. Compared to polystyrene, Zhang Jin believes that PP, or polypropylene, is safer. "Polypropylene is highly crystallized due to its regular structure, so it has a higher melting point and good heat resistance."

It is reported that Dong Jinshi, vice president of the International Food Packaging Association, suggested in an interview with the media that the public should pay attention to the symbols on the lids when drinking hot beverages, and try to minimize the use of the "PS" logo or "No. 6" plastic materials made of lids and tableware.

The meaning of the number of plastic products

"1" - PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is often used in the production of mineral water bottles, bottles of carbonated beverages, but heat resistance is poor, high temperature liquid or heat is easy to deform, there is a risk of heat damage. However, it has poor heat resistance and is easy to be deformed when loaded with high temperature liquid or heated, and harmful substances are dissolved.

"No. 2" - HDPE (high density polyethylene). Commonly used in medicine bottles, shower gel packaging, not suitable for use as water cups, etc..

"No. 3" - PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Easy to produce toxic and harmful substances, less used in packaging food.

"No. 4" - LDPE (low density polyethylene). Cling film, plastic film, etc. are made of this material. It is not very heat-resistant and will melt when it exceeds 110℃.

"No. 5" - PP (polypropylene). It can be put directly into the microwave oven to heat up, and is resistant to high temperatures of 130℃.

"No. 6" - PS (polystyrene). This is the material used in the manufacture of bowls of instant noodle boxes and foam fast food containers. Chemicals can be precipitated at too high a temperature.

"No. 7" - PC and others.PC is mostly used to make milk bottles, space cups and so on.

People's Daily Online - No. 6 plastic cup lids will release poison when hot? Experts: over 70 ℃ best not to use