Chemical migration from reusable plastic bottles: Silicone, polyethylene, and polypropylene show highest hazard potential in LC-HRMS analysis
Selina Tisler, Nastacha Kristiansen, Jan H. Christensen
Abstract
Estimating the chemical hazards of drinking water stored in reusable plastic bottles is challenging due to the numerous intentionally and unintentionally added chemicals. To address this, we developed a broad screening strategy using evaporation enrichment and liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) to evaluate migration of non-volatile chemicals from various reusable plastic bottles. The study analyzed a wide range of materials, revealing significant variability in chemical profiles across different bottle types. Over 70 % of nearly 1000 unknown compounds were unique to specific bottles. Silicone, HDPE, LDPE, and PP bottles showed the highest migration rates, with silicone releasing the most unknowns, but also phthalates and plasticizers. PP bottles exhibited concerning migration of clarifying agents and bisphenol A derivatives. In contrast, PS, PET, PETG, and PCTG had minimal migration, indicating lower health risks. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive assessments of plastic materials to improve consumer safety. • Every bottle type released a unique chemical fingerprint into the water. • Highest number of chemicals migrated from Silicone, HDPE, LDPE, and PP. • Lowest number of chemicals migrated from PS, PET, PETG, and PCTG. • Silicone bottles leached concerning phthalates and plasticizers into water. • PP bottles showed migration of light inhibitors, clarifier and coating agents.