I'm sure most of you have been reading about the problems associated with plastics containing BPA (no, it's NOT BP America although I do wonder if they produce some in their chemical and plastics divisions...) - it's bisphenol A and there is some compelling evidence that it is directly responsible for the early onset of puberty in American youth as well as a host of other issues with adults (breast cancer, prostate issues, fertility problems, obesity and diabetes to name but a few). I don't know about you, but I've been "plastic dependent" for years and years. Who hasn't had a pantry full of sippy cups and plastic baby bottles at one time? And who hasn't, at one time or the other, heated food or liquids in the microwave in plastic containers? This issue isn't an "instant reaction" issue as much as a long term issue - gradual exposure over a period of time.
I've found this link to a site that gives reports on different manufacturers that are considered good, fair, poor, etc. in their use or non-use of BPA in their products. And AOL had an article today about it. I was amazed at how many products I not only have in my house but have purchased for my grandchildren that have a lot of BPA in them! It was in ignorance but still, I want to flag this problem for you all so you can do your own research and make your own assessment of the situation. The evidence is compelling enough for me to not want to take a chance - I've decided to be pro-active on this issue.
Before everyone gets in a panic and throws out half the house, I do hasten to add that the little recycle symbol on the bottom is a good indicator - if it's a 7, toss immediately. It's the worse one of all! But for the others, check the website, make sure liquids are not stored for long periods of time, don't microwave or leave in a car where it will get hot (this hastens release of BPA into the liquid or food item) and use common sense - you wouldn't drink water out of a plastic cup that had been sitting for a day or two - why would you do the same to your child?
Just thought it my "civic duty" as a gramma to expound upon this topic today. Now I must go sort out my pantry and see if there is any danger is lurking...
4 comments:
Thanks for the info! I knew about it in baby bottles but wasn't worried about it because my kids never took bottles. I checked out our sippy cups and most of the ones we have are on the "fair" list (nuby and dr. brown's). I'm pretty rigid about what I put in my kids bodies so it's good to know that retailers are phasing them out.
Thank you for sharing Cheri!
I think Lleyton might be getting all new feeding equipment for his birthday now. :)
UPDATE
Last night, I was telling Colin about all of this. Usually he thinks I'm being ridiculous but he wanted me to throw out a bunch of the cups. Guess we will be getting some new ones also.
Actually, not all number 7 plastics are a problem. 7 is the "other plastics" category, and often is used when there are more than one types of plastic mixed together. However, not all of these contain BPA, so you have to check! On the other hand, numbers 3 and 6 are definite carriers of BPA!
Post a Comment