Environmental watch
BPA in Plastics Harmful to Children
We first heard the news on NPR and now it’s everywhere–a National Toxicology Program report (under the Department of Health and Human Services) finds there is “some concern” that Bisphenol-A may harm the development of fetuses, babies and children.
BPA is a chemical found in hard plastics (like baby bottles and water cooler bottles), the plastic linings of canned foods, and dental sealants. It leaches into food and liquids stored in containers, especially when heated.
The NPT animal studies show exposing rats to low levels of BPA may cause changes in brain development, cancer (breast and prostate), and early puberty for females.
So far this month, Wal-mart has started the process of removing BPA baby bottles from stores, Nalgene will no longer make BPA water bottles, Playtex will stop using BPA materials, and Canada may list BPA as a toxic substance.
How to avoid BPA (especially for pregnant moms and kids):
• Identify plastics. Some BPA plastics are labeled with a 7 stamp on the bottom (though the 7 category can include soft plastics that don’t contain BPA). Baby bottles and toys may not have a plastic stamp, so we look for products advertising as BPA (and phthalate) free or call the manufacturer.
• Use safer plastics, glass or aluminum. We rely on a range of BPA free baby bottles (like the pictured BornFree), food containers, water bottles, sippy cups and feeding gear, and baby teethers. We also never heat any plastic or plastic wrap in the microwave and throw away old, worn and scratched plastics.
• Choose BPA-free canned goods, and powder infant formula.
• If a dentist suggests dental sealants for kids, research the contents of the sealant.
Comments
Post a Comment