In a word – YES. You’ve probably heard at least some of the fuss about Bisphenol A or BPA, particularly with respect to baby bottles. While BPA is particularly hazardous to babies (born or unborn), the most recent studies show it’s a health issue for all of us.

 

Here’s how:

- BPA is a chemical that acts like estrogen in the body and interferes with normal hormonal function.

- BPA during pregnancy can negatively impact the developing breast and prostate and have adverse effects on brain development and behavior in children.

- BPA may also contribute to such impacts as breast cancer, infertility and early puberty in girls.

- BPA is being linked to significantly increased risks of diabetes and heart disease.

Most importantly, though, we’re just beginning to understand how dangerous it may be. A healthy dose of precaution is definitely in order. So where is BPA found, and how do we avoid it?

BPA is a chemical that makes plastics and resins strong. As a result, it is found in many products, including:

- Food storage containers

- Water bottles

- Plastic baby bottles

- Rubber soothers

- Cans that are lined

How can you avoid it?

First the good news: Canada has banned BPA in baby bottles as of late 2008, so as long as you don’t get hand-me-downs of anything but glass you’re in the clear.

Now the bad news: It’s still allowed in lots of other sources, so you’ll likely want to:

o Avoid plastics that are labeled number 7 (the number in the triangle at the bottom). They are typically the ones that contain BPA. For interest sake, they aren’t recyclable in most places, so they don’t do the environment any favours either.

While you’re at it, you’ll likely want to avoid number 3 as well, PVC. It’s got pthalates in it, and while they’re another story, they’re no good for you either.

Don’t worry – you won’t find BPA at Green Cricket.

o Never, never, EVER, microwave food in plastic. When it says microwave safe, it just means that it won’t melt in the microwave – it doesn’t mean that it’s safe for you. When you heat up plastic, you make the chemicals leach out much much faster. Always choose glass for microwaving.

o Use a stainless steel water bottle instead of drinking from plastic – not only is it better for the planet, it contains no BPA or other nasties. Check out Green Cricket’s new stainless steel bottle and Quality Rating.

o Cut down on canned food and drinks – again, glass is a better option if it’s available.

So that’s BPA in a nutshell. More on plastics to follow.    

(written by Katie Altoft)

Tags: BPA, Steel Bottles

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