'Not for food' still ok for hydro?

[bananaz]

So I've been planning a small cupboard hydro setup and was checking out plastic tubs at the local hardware store for the reservoir and satelites. I'm looking at big rectangular black plastic tubs. Embossed on the bottom it said, "NOT FOR FOOD". So I was wondering if this is somehow unsafe?

 

Also, on a hydro site where they are selling pots they say, "Beware recycled plastic pots that are cheap and can really damage your pH and nutrients, as well as introduce other toxins like lead, arsenic and other compounds into your nutrient. We sell plastic that is safe for Hydroponics."

 

So, are these tubs at the hardware store ok to use? Or should I be looking for something specific?

 

Many thanks!!

Edited April 23, 2010 by bananaz

[wilderbud]

Sounds like scare-mongering to me.

[bananaz]

I've done a bit more searching around and from what I've seen hydro shops only sell food grade tubs.

 

The price is about the same as recycled from the local hardware store, so I think I'll play it safe and get some from a hydro shop.

Edited April 26, 2010 by bananaz

[MongyMan]

Yes, you wan't food grade plastics. As they said, recycled plastics can contain alot of impurities that can leach into your water.

 

Peace MongyMan

[Reverend]

Definitely food grade, there was a member here that used recycled pots and had a lot of problems.

[bananaz]

Thanks for the info, I managed to get food grade from the local hardward store. Cost a little more but should be good.

[Pleb Scrubber]

oh oh, My reservoir is recycled-not for food.

 

Is there some way to treat it? boiling water? cleaning agent?