Pub plastic glasses defended
The plastics industry has defended polycarbonate glassware in a letter to the British Beer and Pub Association.
It follows criticism of plastic vessels aired in recent weeks following news that the Home Office is funding research into safer glassware. However, the British Plastics Federation admitted that "drinkers mostly prefer glass".
BPF director general Peter Davis wrote: "I felt I should write to you and correct some misleading information which appeared in the media.
"Plastics technology is constantly evolving and can meet successfully almost every application referred to it.
"There are several types of plastic suitable for the replacement of glass. Much depends on the characteristics the customer requires. Several plastic types were vigorously tested by the Institute of Materials late last year at the request of the Home Office."
He said it's "completely feasible" to supply plastic containers that last longer than glass, are dishwasher-safe, give no 'taint' from the plastic into the drink and weigh and look like glass.
They can also be difficult to break into dangerous shards, come in "innovative shapes", offer the possibility of printing and can be designed to reduce the risk of drink spiking.
He added: "I would agree that drinkers mostly prefer glass, unless they are at risk from violence and accidents which I am sure only occurs in a minority of pubs and clubs."
BBPA director of communications Mark Hastings said the letter shows the BPF "is in broad agreement with us".
"We are not and never have been implacably opposed to plastic. As and when it is appropriate to use plastic glasses, they are used.
"At the same time, as BPF say, the vast majority of people want to enjoy their drink in a glass. They and the industry should continue to enjoy that freedom of choice."
