Bisphenol-A is a hormone disrupting chemical that many consider potentially harmful to humans and the environment. Studies have shown that scratched and really worn polycarbonate feeding bottles (baby bottles with nipples and sippy cups) can leach this chemical into the liquids our children are drinking. Bisphenol-A is also in other plastic products like water jugs and the lining inside tin cans which both adults and children use regularly.

Why is is dangerous?

Studies have found that low doses in infants and fetuses can cause hyper activity in children, prostate and breast cancer later in life, obesity and diabetes.

Is there a law requiring bottle makers to make bottles without bisphenol-A?

No, there is no legislation for this yet. It is an optional for people to seek out products without BPA. Most parents I know seem to be moving towards the BPA free products just to be safe. They are typically more expensive than the traditional bottles, but there is something to be said for peace of mind when it comes to our children.

What can parents do to reduce the risk of bisphenol-A?

For baby bottles - There are alternatives like Born Free bottles which are made of glass or hard plastic without BPA.

For Sippy Cups - There are alternatives like ThinkBaby and Nuby.

For Water Bottles - Sigg & Kleen both offer bottles for adults and whimsical designed ones for children. By replacing your plastic bottles with these resuables ones, it will also reduce the amount of plastic we are contributing to the environment.