MSNBC reported yesterday that Canada will be the first country to ban BPA, or Bisphenol A from plastic baby bottles. This announcement comes six months after its health ministry labeled BPA as dangerous. BPA is an endocrine disruptor which mimics estrogen. SafeMama explains that in animal tests it “has shown to cause an increase in prostate and breast cancer, uro-genital abnormalities in male babies, a decline in semen quality in men, early onset of puberty in girls, metabolic disorders including insulin-resistant (Type 2) diabetes and obesity and neurobehavioral problems such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.”
Health Minister Tony Clement of Canada stated that a report shows BPA as being dangerous to people, especially infants and the environment due to the fact that the chemical can leach from polycarbonate products and epoxy linings and migrate into food and beverages.
Polycarbonate plastics are clear, hard plastics and epoxy resins coat the inside of almost all canned beverages and foods. It can be found in type 3 and type 7 plastics. BPA leaches into food and liquid faster when the plastic is heated.
The FDA has stated that BPA is safe; however, environmental groups do not agree. Most recently, a New York Times editorial article stated that there was a conflict of interest between the FDA and a committee that was used to evaluate the safety of BPA. A scientific panel is expected to present an independent risk assessment later this month.
To see a list of BPA-free baby bottles that can be found in the United States, visit Z Recommends.
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I expect that much of Europe will follow Canada’s lead in the next few years. And, unfortunately, the U.S. will not.
The FDA’s lack of response to the dangers of BPA is ridiculous. Thank goodness there are more responsible countries out there that are pushing manufacturers to do the right thing!