There is a controversy over whether all plastic food containers are safe for consumer use. Many consumers want to find BPA free bottled water brands, as well as products for use by small children. Others are reassured by claims that chemical leaching is not a significant problem in modern food, beverages, and plastic goods.
The proper chemical name is bisphenol A, a component of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Polycarbonates are commonly used in food packaging. Epoxy resins are used to line metal cans and bottle tops. The lining prevents the metal from reacting with foods or liquids. However, many health researchers caution against using polycarbonates in products like baby bottles, and studies show that chemical taints may leach into canned foods from the protective resin lining.
The FDA, America's regulatory body for the food and pharmaceutical industry, says that the low levels of bisphenol A found in foods and beverages does not pose a significant health risk. For this reason, the chemical has not been restricted. However, consumer concerns over research that shows possible danger to children in the womb and up to three years of age have caused many manufacturers of infant and toddler products to produce BPA-free goods.
While the FDA continues its investigation of this chemical, it has published guidelines to limiting exposure to the chemical. Tips include warnings about putting plastic food containers in the microwave or in the dishwasher, since high heat can cause the plastic to break down. Another suggestion is to limit the use of canned goods.
This chemical mimics estrogen in the human body. It may interfere with proper development of the brain and the prostate gland in babies, and may cause behavior disorders. It is considered by some experts to be a carcinogen. Consumers have become increasingly wary, despite FDA assurances of safety. Europe has banned the use of BPA in all products for children under three.
Concerned consumers should look for pacifiers, infant formula bottles, 'sippy cups', and teething rings labeled 'BPA-free'. They may also want to avoid this chemical for their own use by carefully selecting foods and beverages packaged in plastic. Polycarbonate containers will have a '7' recycle code on the bottom.
There are many portable drinking bottles on the market that are not made of plastic. However, those who value the convenience of buying drinks off the shelf may have difficulty in finding information on the chemical composition of bottles. Consumers can check the code number on the bottom of plastic containers. The numbers 2, 4, and 5 designate plastics free of bisphenol A. The number 1 means that the bottle is designed for one use and should not be re-used.
If you can't find this information on the label, you might want to call customer service for particular brands. The companies will be glad to tell you if their water is BPA-free, as well as particulars on other packaging or products.
The proper chemical name is bisphenol A, a component of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Polycarbonates are commonly used in food packaging. Epoxy resins are used to line metal cans and bottle tops. The lining prevents the metal from reacting with foods or liquids. However, many health researchers caution against using polycarbonates in products like baby bottles, and studies show that chemical taints may leach into canned foods from the protective resin lining.
The FDA, America's regulatory body for the food and pharmaceutical industry, says that the low levels of bisphenol A found in foods and beverages does not pose a significant health risk. For this reason, the chemical has not been restricted. However, consumer concerns over research that shows possible danger to children in the womb and up to three years of age have caused many manufacturers of infant and toddler products to produce BPA-free goods.
While the FDA continues its investigation of this chemical, it has published guidelines to limiting exposure to the chemical. Tips include warnings about putting plastic food containers in the microwave or in the dishwasher, since high heat can cause the plastic to break down. Another suggestion is to limit the use of canned goods.
This chemical mimics estrogen in the human body. It may interfere with proper development of the brain and the prostate gland in babies, and may cause behavior disorders. It is considered by some experts to be a carcinogen. Consumers have become increasingly wary, despite FDA assurances of safety. Europe has banned the use of BPA in all products for children under three.
Concerned consumers should look for pacifiers, infant formula bottles, 'sippy cups', and teething rings labeled 'BPA-free'. They may also want to avoid this chemical for their own use by carefully selecting foods and beverages packaged in plastic. Polycarbonate containers will have a '7' recycle code on the bottom.
There are many portable drinking bottles on the market that are not made of plastic. However, those who value the convenience of buying drinks off the shelf may have difficulty in finding information on the chemical composition of bottles. Consumers can check the code number on the bottom of plastic containers. The numbers 2, 4, and 5 designate plastics free of bisphenol A. The number 1 means that the bottle is designed for one use and should not be re-used.
If you can't find this information on the label, you might want to call customer service for particular brands. The companies will be glad to tell you if their water is BPA-free, as well as particulars on other packaging or products.
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