"Samples of various different brands of mineral water showed considerable differences in the test system used. Differences with respect to the package (glass compared to PET) cannot, however, be inferred from the data. The possibility discussed by the authors that these substances originate from the plastic PET itself is rather doubtful because comparable hormonal activity was measured both in water samples from glass bottles and in water samples from PET bottles of the same mineral water brand."

For more on the BfR analysis of this study and other analyses and statements, please view or download the following pdf documents: German BfR (link to PDF), Plastics Europe (link to PDF), and the European Federation of Bottled Water (link to PDF).

Opened bottles can harbor bacteria, however, as will mugs, glasses or any other beverage container. PET bottles are no more likely to foster bacteria than any other packaging or drink container. Ideally, all drinking containers -- including PET bottles -- should be washed with hot, soapy water and dried thoroughly prior to reuse.

For additional information about plastics rumors, visit www.PlasticsMythBuster.org.

Dioxin is a chlorine-containing chemical that has no role or presence in the chemistry of PET plastic. Furthermore, dioxins are part of a family of chemical compounds formed only by combustion at temperatures well above 700 degrees Fahrenheit -- not at room temperature or below.

PET packaging is selected by companies because it is safe, recyclable, convenient and suitable for food and beverage. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reviewed migration testing data and concluded the PET containers do not leach harmful amounts of substances into their contents under foreseeable conditions of use.

For additional information about plastics rumors, visit www.PlasticsMythBuster.org.