Several popular baby bottle brands have been found to transfer potentially harmful levels of a toxic chemical linked to developmental, neural and reproductive problems, according to a new study.
An independent laboratory study was conducted in cooperation with Environment California Research and Policy Center to test whether bisphenol A, a chemical used to make clear plastic for consumer products, including baby bottles, was released into the liquids the bottles contained.
The study tested five popular baby bottle brands: Avent, Dr. Brown's, Evenflo, Gerber and Playtex; all five of which led to contamination by bisphenol A at levels "found to cause harm in numerous laboratory animal studies".
According to Rachel Gibson, Environmental Health Advocate and Staff Attorney for Environment California, the plastic material in containers breaks down through use and releases bisphenol A into liquids and food.
Bisphenol A has been linked by scientists to cancers, impaired immune function, early onset of puberty, obesity, diabetes and hyperactivity.
Although Bisphenol A has been banned in toys and child care products for children under 3 years old, no restriction exists in relation to bottles or food containers.
The group recommends consumers choose glass or "safer-plastic" baby bottles. In addition, the group advises against heating up food or drinks in plastic containers, and using harsh dishwashing soap and hot water, as these practices can speed up the rate of contamination.
10 Sept 2007
Your comments on this story can be read here....."Are Our Babies'Bottles Toxic?" -
To sum up.....parents wanting to avoid or limit the risk to their children could:
• Select glass or safer polycarbonate bottles
• Avoid heating up food or drinks in plastic containers
• Avoid washing plastics dishes, bottles and containers with harsh dishwashing soap and hot water as these can speed up the rate of contamination
• Look for ‘PVC-free’ on the labels of soft plastic toys, teethers and plastic containers
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