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Health Agency: Um, Oops! Some Plastics Might Be Dangerous

Posted by Madeline Holler

The federal government has reversed its stance on the risks of certain plastics. The agency in charge is now saying that BPAs actually might be harmful, especially to the very young.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is used in everything from dental fillings to sports water bottles. It's also found in most baby bottles and is also used to line the inside of formula cans. 

Breastfeeders, you're not off the hook either. Apparently it's not unusual to have harmful amounts in breastmilk, too.

From the WashingtonPost.com

The National Toxicology Program, part of the National Institutes of Health, released a draft report today that says exposure to the chemical may be linked to breast cancer, prostate cancer, early puberty in girls and such behavioral changes as hyperactivity. It urged further study.

Earlier, the agency said small amounts don't carry much of a health risk. But now they're saying even low doses pose a risk. If the EPA adopts the findings, they may act to impose limits on the amounts of the chemical that can be used in various products.

BPA-free products are available, but they can cost a fortune. Still, with these findings, don't you feel like less of a sucker for buying some?

 

Photo: green-mommy.com 


Comments

 

AllisonWonder said:

So how do we know which products have this crap in them?

April 16, 2008 7:03 AM
 

Panama said:

For info about BPA in kids products, check out Safe Mama's "Cheat Sheets":  http://safemama.org

For info about BPA in plastics and foods, browse the Environmental Working Group's site:  www.ewg.org

April 16, 2008 8:39 AM
 

terrierhead said:

Also - check out the Z Recommends report on BPA at zrecs.blogspot.com/.../z-report-on-bpa-in-infant-care-products.html

There's even a handy printable wallet card to carry with you when shopping.

April 16, 2008 1:36 PM
 

Marshs_Mom said:

For those looking for cheaper BPA free options, Evenflo makes both glass and BPA-free plastic bottles for cheaper than most standard bottles cost (less than 5 bucks for a set of 3).  The glass bottles are working really well for us.  They heat up more quickly too.

April 17, 2008 2:24 PM

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