The Scandal Over Bisphenol-A

Bisphenol A is a controversial chemical that is found in plastic bottles (like water bottles) and the lining of cans (the kind that soups and other canned foods come in).

Residues of this chemical have been known to leak into the contents contained in the can or bottle that is made with Bisphenol A. This information has become more troubling since it’s been discovered that BPA also leaches into disposable bottled water under certain conditions.

Although the plastics industry says that BPA is perfectly safe, scientists have found that exposure to Bisphenol A in the womb increases the risk of certain types of cancer, could cause fertility problems and can contribute to childhood behavioral issues.

It mimics a naturally occurring estrogen and can disrupt an unborn or newborn child’s development. Frighteningly, ninety-five percent of Americans are estimated to have traceable BPA deposits in their urine!

Food and beverage can linings, dental sealants. plastic water bottles and baby bottles are all possible sources of BPA when it migrates from the container itself into the food, drink or baby formula it contains.

As scientific studies continue, more information about the potential harms or safety of BPA will be explored, and new food containers will be made without BPA. If you are concerned, do your best to reduce the amount of foods you purchase in cans or plastic bottles and look for BPA-free products to store your food and drink in.

Recent news puts plastic bottles, baby bottles and cans in the spotlight as food and drink containers that may be harming us by releasing Bisphenol A into what we consume.

As concern and controversy grows, some manufacturers are coming up with products that are BPA-free to answer growing demand from consumers. Some stores have even pulled baby items and bottles that contain BPA from their shelves.

With babies being the most susceptible to the effects of BPA, manufacturers are coming out with full lines of products for newborns and little ones such as bottles, nipples, bibs, teethers, sippy cups, placemats, dishes, pacifiers, and even food grinders.

These items are made without BPA, so they pose less risk to babies. Currently, the BPA-free products that are on the market are pretty much for the little ones, although BPA-free reusable water bottles are available for adults (you know the kind that you take to the gym or when out for a bike ride?).

Many products that are free of Bisphenol A can be found in stores, but you must pay attention to labeling. You can also find lots of BPA-free items online. A simple search will produce many sites that offer products that are safer than conventional ones.

As work continues to discover just how safe or unsafe BPA is, manufacturers will continue to give the market choices for those who prefer to be BPA-free. Until we have a full understanding of BPA, it may be best to shop for BPA-free products.