Is Drinking Lemon Juice from Plastic Cups Safe During Pregnancy?

Drinking lemon juice from a plastic cup?

Dear Doctor,
My wife is about 34 weeks pregnant, and she has been drinking lemon juice that we diluted ourselves.
We store the concentrated lemon juice in a plastic cup in the refrigerator.
Yesterday, we noticed significant corrosion on the plastic cup, and we are very concerned that the lemon juice we consumed may contain toxins that could negatively affect the fetus.
We diluted the juice at a ratio of about 1:10 and have consumed it approximately 10 times over the past month.
I would like to ask if this situation could cause any abnormalities in the fetus.
Thank you!
Sincerely, an anxious soon-to-be dad.

linjiacyun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/25

Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition

Hello! If the plastic cup you mentioned is made of polystyrene, it is not advisable to store citrus fruit juices (such as lemon, orange, grapefruit, kumquat, pear, and tangerine) in it.
This is because the peels of these fruits contain terpenes, which can dissolve polystyrene during the juicing process, potentially leading to adverse effects on cardiovascular health.
A simple way to identify polystyrene is that it ignites easily and produces thick black smoke when burned.

If the plastic cup ignites and produces white smoke with a candle-like odor, it is likely made of polypropylene (PP), which is safe for use.
However, if it is indeed PP, it should not dissolve; it may have been deformed due to direct contact with a heat source (such as accidentally touching a gas flame or the heating element of a drying machine), which poses no harm to health.
You can rest assured about this.
If testing reveals that the container is made of polystyrene, aside from replacing the container (using a glass cup is safer), regular prenatal check-ups are essential.
Generally, during the first three months of pregnancy, it is important to avoid radiation, infections, or harmful medications, while in the last three months, preventing malnutrition is crucial.
Therefore, there is no need for concern at this moment, but if you are still worried, you may discuss it with your obstetrician.

Sincerely,
Dietitian Shih Kuei-Mei, Director of the Nutrition Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2004/08/25

More Info

Drinking lemon juice from plastic cups during pregnancy raises valid concerns, particularly regarding the safety of the plastic used and the potential for chemical leaching into the juice. Lemon juice is acidic, and when stored in certain types of plastic, it can cause the plastic to break down, potentially releasing harmful substances into the liquid.
The primary concern here is whether the plastic cup is made from polystyrene (PS) or polypropylene (PP). Polystyrene is known to be less stable when in contact with acidic substances like lemon juice. When polystyrene degrades, it can leach styrene, a chemical that has been associated with various health risks, including potential effects on fetal development. If the plastic cup shows signs of corrosion or degradation, it is advisable to stop using it immediately and switch to a safer alternative, such as glass or food-grade stainless steel containers.

On the other hand, polypropylene is generally considered safe for food and drink storage, as it is more resistant to leaching and degradation. If the plastic cup is made of polypropylene and has not been exposed to high temperatures or direct heat sources, it is less likely to pose a risk. However, if you notice any deformation or melting, it is best to discard the cup.

Regarding the consumption of diluted lemon juice, if the juice was prepared using a safe container and the dilution ratio was appropriate (10:1 as you mentioned), the risk of adverse effects is significantly reduced. The acidity of lemon juice can be beneficial in moderation, as it provides vitamin C and other nutrients. However, excessive consumption of acidic beverages can lead to dental erosion and gastrointestinal discomfort, which should be monitored.

In terms of fetal development, the primary risks during pregnancy stem from exposure to harmful substances, infections, and nutritional deficiencies. If the lemon juice was stored in a compromised container, there may be a concern about chemical exposure, but if you have not experienced any adverse symptoms and have been following a balanced diet, the risk may be minimal. Regular prenatal check-ups are essential to monitor the health of both the mother and the fetus.

If you are still concerned about the potential effects of the lemon juice or the plastic cup, it is advisable to consult with your obstetrician or a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your wife's health history and current pregnancy status.

In summary, while drinking lemon juice from plastic cups can be safe if the right type of plastic is used, it is crucial to ensure that the container is appropriate for acidic liquids. If there are any signs of degradation, it is best to switch to safer alternatives. Regular prenatal care and open communication with healthcare providers will help ensure a healthy pregnancy.

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