Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a hormone/endocrine disruptor that mimics the human hormone estrogen. Scientific research shows that this chemical has been linked to fertility problems, diabetes, breast cancer, hyperactivity, early puberty in girls, and breast tissue development in boys.
The plastics industry is confident that the chemical poses no risk and that the exposure humans have to it leaching from products made with it is in such low forms that it is not a health risk to humans.
In April 2008, Canada disagreed, banning the sale of baby bottles containing this chemical, declaring it to be toxic. Parts of Europe have also banned it and Japan did so over 5 years ago.
• Bisphenol-A (BPA) is the chemical used in Polycarbonate (PC) and other hard plastic.
• It is from the phthalates (“thay-lates”), group of chemicals, like PVC.
• It’s properties make plastic shatter proof and clear.
• When these plastics are exposed to heat they leach this chemical out. For example, when heating baby milk in a Polycarbonate bottle, especially in the microwave, this increases the leaching of BPA into the milk.
• Over time the properties in BPA begin to break down releasing more of the chemical into the environment. The older the product the more the BPA will leach. Worn and/or damaged products (i.e.: scratched baby bottles) speed up this process.
Why take the risk?
There are alternatives to using plastic containing BPA. Glass, Stainless Steel, Polypropylene , Polyamide and PES are all plastics that DO NOT contain BPA in their production.
Children up to the age of 18 months are so vulnerable, looking to their parents to assist in their growth and development. If there is any question about a substance that can hinder or harm, why take that risk when there are alternatives?
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