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Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
PET is a synthetic thermoplastic polyester used for food and beverage packaging (bottles, containers). It is not a food ingredient but an FDA- and EFSA-approved food-contact material (indirect additive). Under typical use, overall migration is low and within regulatory limits, though heat and prolonged storage can increase migration of certain compounds.
Mineral or nutrientUpdated Feb 14, 2026
Health score-1.0
-5Poor5
Water guidelines
- Legal limit
- Not specified
- Health guideline
- Not specified
Food and supplement guidelines
- Legal limit
- Not specified
- Health guideline
- Not specified
Risks
Potential antimony migration from catalyst, increased leaching with heat and prolonged storage, possible estrogenic activity signals in bottled water (inconsistent evidence), microplastic/nanoplastic shedding and exposure (health effects under investigation), potential taste/odor from acetaldehyde at high temperatures
Benefits
None
References
Waters containing Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
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