A controversial chemical has been found in food that is specifically marketed to children. That's the finding of a new report which found the chemical bisphenol-A (BPA) inside cans of kid-targeted soup and pasta. BPA is used in the lining of metal cans and has been linked to health issues including infertility, some cancers and developmental problems. Childhood exposure is especially concerning because BPA is an endocrine-disrupting chemical that can affect a child's hormonal system during development.
In the new report by the Breast Cancer Fund researchers looked at canned products marketed to kids, including ones with popular cartoon characters or labels that said something about kids. Each of the six cans of food sampled tested positive for BPA. Researchers say the levels found in the cans were a little higher than those previously found in baby bottles and water bottles. Several states have banned the use of BPA in baby bottles and infant food containers and many of the largest makers of baby bottles have stopped using the chemical in their products.
Breast Cancer Fund officials say they hope the report will shine a spotlight on the issue of BPA and encourage companies to seek safer alternatives to the chemical. The Breast Cancer Fund is launching a "Cans Not Cancer" campaign, urging manufacturers to replace BPA with alternatives. The fund also supports pending federal legislation that would ban BPA from all food and beverage containers.
If you are concerned about BPA, here are my top five ways reduce your exposure to the controversial chemical.
1) Be Particular About Your Plastic
BPA can be found in plastic food containers and water bottles. It’s best to drink water from a stainless steel or a “BPA-free” labeled bottle. If you are using plastic food containers or buy food in a plastic container, check the bottom. BPA is used in polycarbonate (PC) containers that are often marked #7. Plastics with the recycling numbers #1, #2, and #4 are safer choices.
2) Make Better Choices for Your Baby
BPA can actually leach into liquid formula sold in metal cans. Powdered baby formula has been shown to be BPA-free so it’s the best choice. Most manufacturers now offer baby bottles made without BPA but as a general rule, hard, clear plastic often contains BPA while soft, cloudy plastic usually does not. Avoid bottles marked “PC” or #7 on the bottom.
3) Cut Down on Canned Foods
BPA is also found in the lining of many canned food and juices. The chemical can actually leach from the liner into the food itself. Seek out cans labeled “BPA-free” and choose food items packaged in glass or Tetra Pak cartons to reduce BPA exposure. Experts also recommend rinsing canned fruit and vegetables with water before eating to reduce exposure.
4) Careful How You Handle Those Receipts
Several studies have found BPA in thermal paper including cash register receipts. If you don’t need the receipt, leave it or ask the cashier not to print one. If you need it, be sure to wash your hands after handling. Certainly, never let your children handle store receipts. You can tell if the receipt is printed on thermal paper if it makes a mark when you scratch it.
5) Glass Is Good
There is evidence that BPA can leach into food when it is heated in plastic containers in a microwave, even those that labeled as “microwave safe.” To reduce potential exposure heat your food in a glass or ceramic container.
The bottom line? Reducing BPA exposure is an important way to create a healthier home for you and your family. Do Your Part when buying and using products to make sure they won’t contaminate your food, your body, or our planet.
Terri Bennett is a veteran TV meteorologist, syndicated columnist and author, and founder of DoYourPart, everyday green living ideas that are better for you and the planet. Send questions toterri@doyourpart.com and follow DoYourPart on Facebook and Twitter. Terri's new book "Do Your Part: A practical guide for everyday green living" is now available at DoYourPart.com
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