HDPE Plastic Food Container (#2) vs. Polypropylene Food Container (#5 PP)

Materials

• High-density polyethylene (HDPE, recycling #2)

Common claims

• BPA-free
• Dishwasher safe
• Lightweight

Concerns / watch-outs

• HDPE is one of the safer plastics but can still leach additives at elevated temperatures
• Avoid microwaving or storing hot food — cold and room temperature use is lower risk

Notes

Among the safer plastic types for cold food storage. Avoid heat and replace if cracked or scratched, as degraded surfaces leach more readily.

Cleaner alternatives

• stainless steel food container
• borosilicate glass container

Materials

• Polypropylene (PP, recycling #5)

Common claims

• BPA-free
• Microwave safe
• Dishwasher safe

Concerns / watch-outs

• PP is generally considered one of the safer plastics, but some studies show leaching under microwave heat
• Scratched or old PP containers leach more; replace when visibly worn

Notes

Polypropylene (#5) is among the safer plastic types for cold food storage. Avoid microwaving fatty foods in any plastic container, including PP.

Cleaner alternatives

• borosilicate glass container
• stainless steel food container