Plastics industry argues plastic acceptable replacement for dangerous glass pints
The plastics industry has hit back against criticism regarding the replacement of drinks glasses with plastic designs in UK pubs in order to curb violence.
In a letter to the British Beer and Pub Association, the British Plastics Federation argued that plastics technology is constantly evolving and can meet almost every application referred to it.
"Several plastic types were vigorously tested by the Institute of Materials late last year and several types are suitable for the replacement of glass," said the BPF's director general Peter Davis.
The BPA argued that plastic glasses lasted longer than glass, wouldn't score in a dishwasher, weighed and looked like glass and were hard to break into dangerous shards.
But Davis also agreed that many punters preferred drinks served in a glass: "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.
The Home Office last month commissioned a new unbreakable plastic glass design to cut the risk of glass-related injuries but industry bodies said it would be wrong to force pubs without a record of violence to use plastic glasses.
In a statement today, the BBPA expressed its support for the use of plastic glasses when the need arises.
"The British Plastics Federation letter shows they are in broad agreement with us. 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," said Mark Hastings, director of communications.
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By Emma White
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