Anyone remember that “Plastics” was the hot tip whispered to The Graduate in the popular 1967 film? Plastics at that time were the miracle material, promising to revolutionize manufacturing, industry and household living. Fast forward to 2009 and plastics are ubiquitous. Along with convenience and utility, plastics have brought with them a host of health concerns due to chemical additives like bisphenol-A (BPA) and phthalates. All of our homes contain plastics, and as we try to minimize our exposure, we are often confused by which plastics are safe, which are not, and how to tell the difference. Here is a definitive guide to helping you choose the best plastic and plastic alternatives for your family.