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BPA in children's containers
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Photograph by Nigel Cox
Chicago is the first city to ban the use of the environmentally controversial chemical bisphenol-A, commonly referred to as BPA, in those hardened plastic containers used in products for children under the age of 3, including sippy cups and baby bottles. BPA has been proven to leach into the fluids in containers, especially if heated in microwave and/ or cleaned in electric dishwashers. There is a correlation between high heat and the chemical leaching--leaving such items in cars poses some concerns as well according to the Center for Health, Environment & Justice. Parents that want to be cautious should wash all children's plastic food and beverage containers by hand and not leave them in the car. If you buy bottled water, a onetime investment into a water filter or local water delivery company that uses glass gallon containers may be more prudent as the plastic bottles at the market likely traveled many miles in hot trucks.
In animal studies BPA has been proven to accelerate puberty and to higher cancer risks. BPA is a synthetic sex hormone that resembles estrogen and is used to make hard polycarbonate plastic. Currently, an estimated "95 percent of all baby bottles on the market are made with bisphenol A".
However, in adults it has also been linked to heart disease and diabetes increase. In a 2008 draft risk assessment, The Food and Drug Administration maintained that the levels of BPA found in the American market products is safe. However, a scientific panel of advisers to the F.D.A. refuted that conclusion in October 2008 stating that "the agency had ignored crucial studies and used flawed methods". The FDA's review of BPA studies continues.
These reviews are much too slow and the potential too risky for many, like Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, who signed a state law prohibiting BPA.
There are attractive options for parents that are more cost-efficient in the long term and might just clear lots of clutter in the kitchen cabinets and drawers. Here are a few suggestions: Colorado based Eco Ditty is made locally of organic cotton and offers reusable sandwich and snack bags. For drinking bottles try EarthLust or Foogo and review a complete list of BPA free bottles.
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