Many plastics that are not manufactured under regulatory guidelines relating to food contact can contain hazardous chemicals and metals such as Copper that can migrate or leach into the surrounding environment. If edible plants are grown in contact with these types of products or if a liquid fertilizer nutrient solution is stored using inappropriate materials and then used to hydrate and feed plants, the plants may become contaminated. Although plastics are known around the Earth for their cheapness, durability, and availability, many of them should not be used in contact with plants that will be used for food.
The Canadian government agency known as the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has a web-site that has information regarding these matters and it is located at: http://www.inspection.gc.ca click on "manuals" and then "reference materials".
The United States government has a web-site with similar material and it can be found at: http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisi... and another at http://www.fda.gov/opacom/morechoices/sm... . When possible, only materials that have been confirmed to be "food safe" by the manufacturer should be used in hydroponics systems used to grow food crops. Many different types of products such as polyethylenes, polystyrenes, and nylons, to name a few, are regarded as being safe for use in contact with food products.
On the other hand, when ornamental plants that are not slated for consumption are being grown, almost any plastic that will suit the physical parameters of the project can be used.
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