There have long been stories circulating on social media claiming that the freezing of water in plastic bottles can increase your cancer risk. On the surface, some of these facts seem pretty convincing. Originally there seemed to be supporting references from the likes of John Hopkins, and the American Cancer Society. But if you take a moment to look a little closer, you start to wonder if any of the claims hold water.

Interestingly, these claims were later debunked, and these institutions do not support these claims. The original emails were from people who falsely cited their work with credible institutions such as Johns Hopkins.

This article takes a deeper look at where these myths started, how they were debunked, and tips for decreasing cancer risk.

Where the Claims First Started

In the early 2000s, different versions of emails began circulating in the U.S. warning that the freezing of water in plastic bottles causes a chain reaction that releases a dangerous toxin, called dioxin, into the water once it thaws. Dioxin is a man-made compound that has been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer.

The stories were based on claims made by Dr. Edward Fujimoto on a television show in Honolulu back in 2002. What might have been easily forgotten news was suddenly turned into a media firestorm when a staffer with the American Cancer Society, believing the claim to be valid, began forwarding the report through the organization’s social channels.

By 2007, an email credited to John Hopkins Hospital also began making the rounds, further embedding the myth about the link between dioxin and plastic bottles. However, this email was falsely attributed to Johns Hopkins, and they do not support these claims.

A Myth Debunked

In response, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a statement denying any claims that the substances used to make plastics can leach into foods. The FDA is the agency that regulates not only the safety of our foods and drugs but so-called “indirect food additives” (substances that come into direct contact with food as part of the packaging process).

In their statement, the FDA stated that the levels of chemicals that might leach into foods from plastic containers were well within the margin of safety. They further stated that there was no evidence that plastic bottles or packages contain dioxin.

Overall, drinking water from plastic bottles is just as safe as any other type of container. However, it’s best to clean any container with hot soapy water before refiling them to decrease the risk of bacteria or fungi growing.

How to Reduce Your Cancer Risk

If ever faced with a piece of science that seems either “shocking” or questionable, give your healthcare provider a call to get a professional opinion. When it comes to making positive changes to better reduce your risk of cancer, there are 6 things you should always aim for:

What About Bisphenol A (BPA)?

BPA is known for its hormone-disrupting effects and is linked to many health issues, including infertility, weight gain, and diabetes. Growing evidence also suggests BPA exposure increases cancer risk.

By 2013, the FDA banned the use of BPA in baby bottles, sippy cups, and infant formula packaging. But the FDA still considers the chemical “safe” to use in other food packaging materials.

  • Keeping up with recommended cancer screenings
  • Staying current on vaccines
  • Quitting smoking and avoiding second-hand smoke
  • Lowering alcohol consumption
  • Practicing sun safety
  • Eating a well-balanced diet and avoiding excessive red meat
  • Exercising regularly

Summary

Stories have long been circulating about the risk of freezing water in plastic bottles and increasing the risk of cancer. Over time, what were originally deemed as credible claims were eventually debunked. The medical institutions that were supposedly backing these claims denied having anything to do with them.

The FDA monitors the substances used to package food. They issued a statement denying any claims that the substances used to make plastics can leach into foods.

A Word From Verywell

Medical hoaxes like this are more harmful than you might think. They create the perception that danger exists where there is none, leading people to seek solutions that either waste their time or, worse yet, put them in harm’s way.

If you’re worried about your risk of developing cancer, talk with your healthcare provider. They will be able to give you accurate information to help ease your mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is cold water bad for you?
  • Drinking cold water is only bad for you if it triggers existing conditions such as achalasia (a rare disorder making it hard to swallow or drink) or migraines.
  • Learn More:
  • Can Drinking Cold Water Cause Cancer?
  • Is it bad to freeze plastic?
  • While there is no evidence that freezing plastic is bad for you, the United States (U.S.) Food and Drug Administration does note that it is best not to cook in non-microwave approved plastics. It also a good idea to avoid reheating foods in non-microwave approved plastic containers such as a margarine or yogurt tub.
  • Learn More:
  • Is Plastic a Carcinogen?
  • Do plastic bottles release toxins?
  • The plastic used for bottled water is polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which the FDA has deemed safe for food packaging under normal use. In their statement, the FDA stated that the levels of chemicals that might leach into foods from plastic containers were well within the margin of safety.The evidence is ongoing regarding the safety of leaving plastic water bottles in extremely hot temperatures (>40C or 104F) for long periods of time. It’s also important to note that plastics not deemed safe for the microwave (i.e. margarine or yogurt tubs) should not be used to warm food.

Drinking cold water is only bad for you if it triggers existing conditions such as achalasia (a rare disorder making it hard to swallow or drink) or migraines.

While there is no evidence that freezing plastic is bad for you, the United States (U.S.) Food and Drug Administration does note that it is best not to cook in non-microwave approved plastics. It also a good idea to avoid reheating foods in non-microwave approved plastic containers such as a margarine or yogurt tub.

The plastic used for bottled water is polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which the FDA has deemed safe for food packaging under normal use. In their statement, the FDA stated that the levels of chemicals that might leach into foods from plastic containers were well within the margin of safety.