Today more than ever, there is more emphasis on natural, organic and safe products for our families. One major issue has and continues to be BPA in our babies bottles. Sippy Cups, Teethers and Pacifiers can also contain BPA as well as cans, soda cans and plastic containers.

So what exactly is BPA? Bisphenol A or BPA is a chemical that is used in making plastic. As convenient as plastic is, there are major health concerns of using this additive.

Bisphenol A, mimics estrogen in the body. Some plastics leach BPA when the plastic comes in contact with oil and fatty foods, especially during heating and microwaving and as a result of harsh cleaners. Of major concern is the exposure to BPA over long term exposure.

Bisphenol A has been linked by scientists to cancers, impaired immune function, early onset of puberty, obesity, diabetes, hyperactivity, decreased sperm count, increase prostate size, hormonal changes and estrogen level changes. That's quite a list.

The coding on the bottles can help you identify if you are using a polycarbonate item.

• 1 PETE: Used for soft drink, juice and water containers.
• 2 HDPE: Used in opaque plastic milk and water jugs.
• 3 PVC or V: Used for cling wrap.
• 4 LDPE: Used in grocery store bags and plastic wraps.
• 5 PP: Used in "cloudy" plastic containers such as baby bottles.
• 6 PS: Used in disposable cups and Styrofoam.
• 7 Other: Usually polycarbonate. Commonly used in most plastic baby bottles, clear plastic sippy cups and water bottles.

So containers or plastic labeled 1, 2, 4, or 5 are the containers that are suggested usage. Avoid using containers labeled 3, 6, 7.

The majority of plastic baby bottles are made of polycarbonate. If you must use a polycarbonate, there are percautions you can take.

• Do not use bottles that are old and/or scratched.
• Do not use polycarbonate containers in the microwave.
• Do not clean with harsh detergents as this will cause the plastic to wear.
• Do not place high temperature liquids in polycarbonate containers

Many companies are now making Bisphenol A (BPA) Free Products available to the public. Such as the

• Adiri Natural Nurser
• Dr. Brown's Standard Bottle (3-Pack)
• Evenflo Classic Glass Bottle (6-Pack)
• Nuby Non-Drip Polypropylene Bottles (3-Pack)

My favorite is the Adiri Natural Nurser which is the Winner of the Medical Design Excellence Award 2008

To view a great selection of Bisphenol A (BPA) Free Products including Bottles, Pacifiers and Teethers, please visit us at Our Earth Friendly Babies.

Earth Friendly Baby Products, Organic, Natural and Eco-Friendly Products for you and your family.