Hello, I'm an expert in the field of materials science with a focus on polymers and plastics. When it comes to the safety of plastics, it's important to understand the different types and their intended uses.

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET or PETE), which is number 5 plastic, is commonly used for making things like water and soft drink bottles, peanut butter jars, and some food packaging. It's a very safe material for these single-use applications because it's been thoroughly tested and approved for contact with food and beverages.

However, there are concerns about the safety of reusing number 5 plastic containers. Over time, or with repeated washing, these containers can start to break down, potentially leaching chemicals into the food or drink they contain. This is especially true when they are exposed to heat, as can happen in a dishwasher or microwave (which is not recommended for PET).

It's also worth noting that while PET is safe for its intended use, the additives, inks, and dyes used in its production can sometimes be a concern. High-quality manufacturers follow strict guidelines to ensure these additives are safe, but it's always a good idea to choose products from reputable sources.

In summary, number 5 plastic is safe for its intended use, which is as a one-time use container for food and beverages. It's not recommended for long-term food storage or reuse, especially not in circumstances where it will be exposed to heat.

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Plastic #5 - Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic polymer. It is strong, tough, has a high resistance to heat and acts as a barrier to moisture. Most PP are microwavable safe and dishwasher safe. NOTE: microwavable/dishwasher safe only means that the plastic will not warp when heated.read more >>