The concerns about BPA leaching into water from toxic plastics encouraged a move to metal bottles.  It was thought that they were more environmentally sustainable and a safer alternative to plastic.   Think again! Toxicity in metal reusable water bottles is a growing concern due to the potential for the release of harmful chemicals, including lead. Metal water bottles are often made from aluminum, stainless steel, or other metals. While these materials are generally considered safe for drinking, they can still leach small amounts of toxins into the liquid. There have been many recalls of popular brands of  metal water bottles due to lead contamination.  The acceptable limit for lead is 90 ppm (this is the standard regulations worldwide for lead content) , some children’s water bottles have been tested and shown to have 100% lead in PARTS of the bottle!

Aluminum is one of the most common metals used in metal water bottles and it has been linked to some health concerns. Aluminum can leach into the water from the bottle, especially if it is exposed to acidic liquids such as fruit juices or sports drinks; in addition, these bottles should not be heated or cleaned in the dishwasher.  The aluminum can then be absorbed by the body and accumulate over time, potentially leading to health problems such as Alzheimer’s disease and kidney damage.  

Stainless steel is another popular material used in metal reusable water bottles. While stainless steel does not leach toxins into the water like aluminum does, it can still release small amounts of nickel and chromium which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. Additionally, some stainless steel bottles may contain bisphenol A (BPA) which is a known endocrine disruptor that has been linked to reproductive issues and cancer.