Family Health & Parenting

I saw this article this morning. Good advice for pregnant & lactating women in avoiding the hormone mimicking BPA.

Pregnant women told to avoid BPA packaging
By Charlotte Eyre
 
03-Apr-2008 - A US health-advocacy group has warned that pregnant women should reduce their exposure to packaging that contains bisphenol A (BPA) to avoid passing the controversial chemical to their unborn children.

The warning, from the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), will serve as yet more negative publicity for packaging companies, many of which use BPA when manufacturing polycarbonates for water bottles, canned soups and drinks, and baby food bottles.

“We don’t want to tell people not to eat canned beans or tomatoes,” said CSPI nutritionist David Schardt. “But at the same time, it makes sense for all parents, and especially pregnant and nursing women, to minimize the exposure of their kids’ developing bodies and brains to BPA.”

The group cites a scientific study published by the National Institute of Environmental Health (NIEH) in August last year, which warned that rats exposed to BPA experienced “a wide range of adverse effects”.

While the influence on humans has not yet been fully studied, the NIEH said that the changes in the animals indicated that BPA may provoke childhood health problems such as early onset of puberty, obesity, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and urogenital abnormalities.

According to the CSPI, these findings are worrying enough to call for pregnant women to boycott packaging products containing BPA.

“In fact, the food industry could make life easier by phasing it out entirely,” Schart said.

Bisphenol A was first studied in the 1930s as a possible mimic of the hormone estrogen in women. The chemical was later developed to make clear plastics for use in the food industry.

Several scientific results have been conducted into the safey of BPA in recent years, and researchers have also linked it to adult health concerns, especially breast and prostate cancer.

In 2007, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) set a maximum limit for human daily intake of BPA of five milligrams per kilo of body weight per day, but stressed that more studies were needed to link the chemical with human health problems.

The Canadian government has also launched a study into BPA, the results of which are expected later this year.

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Very interesting. This article is stating that BPA found in canned foods, baby bottles, plastic containers and wrap, etc. could be a factor in obesity and other health problems, such as diabetes and ADD/ADAH. 

(NaturalNews) Bisphenol-A could be making us fatter. Diet and too little exercise are the main culprits of what has been called the obesity epidemic, but the hormone mimicker bisphenol-A might be tipping the scales, so to speak.

Bisphenol-A (BPA) is mainly found in polycarbonate plastic, which is labeled with the number 7; in plastic food wrap, and in the resins that coat the inside of metal cans for food. It is so prevalent in today’s products that it is even in refrigerator shelving, water bottles, plastic food storage containers, water pipes and flooring.

BPA is an endocrine disrupter that mimics the hormone estrogen. Studies have shown harmful biological effects on animals using low-doses of the chemical and harmful effects on humans have been observed outside of studies. Hormone disrupting effects have been shown to occur at levels of application as low as 2-5 pars per billion and many canned foods are within and over this range. [1] With such a low level of toxicity, it’s easy to see how even a minuscule rate of bisphenol-A (BPA) leakage from plastics disturbs many people. The damaging effects of the chemical include impairment and unnatural changes to sex organs and their functions, increased tumor formation, hyperactivity, neurotoxin effects, and signs of early puberty have been observed. Clearly, BPA’s toxic effects are diverse.

A recent study by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention discovered that about 93% of the United States population have bisphenol-A in their body at a median concentration of 2.7 ppb. [2]

Read the entire article.

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Plastics additive raises safety fears
By Wade Rawlins
McClatchey Newspapers

The plastic additive is leaching from your water bottles, soda cans, baby bottles, microwaveable dishes — just about anything made of certain lightweight clear plastics.

And it mimics the hormone estrogen, which some research indicates could harm human health, particularly the development of fetuses and newborn babies.

Known as BPA, bisphenol-A has been used in commercial production of lightweight plastics and epoxy resins since the 1950s. Billions of pounds are produced annually. Traces of it are found in almost everyone — including the umbilical cord blood of newborn babies.

Although the chemical industry contends that the weight of scientific evidence on bisphenol-A doesn’t support claims of harm, the chemical remains controversial. Studies flagging the compound’s possible health threat to humans have made people nervous about the plastics they use every day to serve and store food.

“There is a cause for concern,” said Gerald LeBlanc, chairman of the department of environmental and molecular toxicology at N.C. State.

“It’s not something we should be sweeping under the rug.”

Read the entire article.

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I finally heard back from Whole Foods regarding whether or not their 365 brand contains BPA in the lining of their canned food products. Here is the response (I think he repeats himself, but this is the unedited email):

Trisha,

Thank you so much for your email.  We are committed to helping our customers protect themselves and their families and as such are concerned about the growing body of research which connects BPA and other estrogenic compounds, including phthalates, to certain health effects. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has said that such materials are appropriate and safe, we are currently evaluating certain products and packaging materials on a variety of criteria, including endocrine activity, toxicity, recyclability and functionality. Our goal is to help our customers avoid endocrine active materials in products and packaging where functional alternatives exist.

We are staying on top of the latest academic research regarding the endocrine activity of substances present in plastics, including BPA. When appropriate, we have stopped the sale of certain products and/or provided information to our customers about the products. For example, as of January 2006 we stopped selling baby bottles and child drinking cups made from polycarbonate plastic or other plastics with added phthalates because of the emerging scientific evidence on their risk.

We have begun the process of examining the plastic packaging materials we use to package foods in our stores, and are working with a leading testing firm to design a laboratory test to accurately assess the endocrine activity of these materials. We will continue to search for the safest and most functional packaging materials for our stores.

Some of the canned products sold in our stores may have small amounts of bisphenol-a in the lining material. We are actively assessing the safety of the packaging materials used in our stores, as we are committed to helping our customers protect themselves and their families and as such are concerned about the growing body of research which connects BPA and other estrogenic compounds to certain health effects. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has said that such materials are appropriate and safe, we are currently evaluating certain products and packaging materials on a variety of criteria, including endocrine activity, toxicity, recyclability and functionality. Our goal is to help our customers avoid endocrine active materials in products and packaging where functional alternatives exist.

We are staying on top of the latest academic research regarding the endocrine activity of substances present in plastics, including BPA. When appropriate, we have stopped the sale of certain products and/or provided information to our customers about the products. For example, as of January 2006 we stopped selling baby bottles and child drinking cups made from polycarbonate plastic or other plastics with added phthalates because of the emerging scientific evidence on their risk.

We have begun the process of examining the plastic packaging materials we use to package foods in our stores, and are working with a leading testing firm to design a laboratory test to accurately assess the endocrine activity of these materials. We will continue to search for the safest and most functional packaging materials for our stores.

Jason Hays

Guest Services Content Administrator, Private Label

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This topic has been a hot one in the last few months. I saw this article today and though it is not much clearer if BPA is harmful or not, it does seem to make a few pretty clear points.

First let’s back up. BPA is bisphenol A, a chemical found in polycarbonate plastics, the hard, clear plastics (labeled #7) used to make items like baby bottles and sippy cups, and also lines many metal food and infant formula cans. BPA is known to mimic the female hormone estrogen.

The article is long, though a good one at telling both sides. It is notable that most independent/government studies have shown adverse affects and industry tests have not. Who stands to lose something – the industry right? They would have to come up with alternatives if they found BPA to be harmful. Industry research does not hold much water with me.

The article does conclude though that BPA seems to do more harm in small quantities because hormones are released in small quantities, so the body responds accordingly. It also states that BPA appears to do the most harm during critical development times – during fetal development and during the first year of life. These small amounts affect organ development and may increase susceptibility to the development of cancer in some organs.

It also states :
“Early life exposure to environmentally relevant BPA doses may result in persistent adverse effects in humans.”
and
“The function of the immune system can be altered following adult exposure to BPA.”
So, while there is still no clear cut answer on the effects in humans (these tests were done on lab rats), scientists certainly see a need for further studies, especially during critical development periods.

The NDP in Canada also has called for a ban on BPA in children’s food and beverage containers. California has explored a ban as well.

Because studies do show harm and the harm was found after the subjects were given a low-dose of BPA, I am going to continue to avoid it. There are safer bottles, sippy cups and fresh food instead of canned food. And since I breastfeed my 22 month old and hope to become pregnant soon, I will certainly ensure I avoid BPA myself. Honestly, it is not hard to do since safer alternatives are available, so it has not been an inconvenience. Even if it were, the extra steps are worth protecting the health of my family.

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Someone asked about the safety of individual applesauces, fruit bowls and canned food in the comments of my original article on bisphenol-a. I did not go much into detail about how it relates to canned foods, so thought I would make a post out of my response to her. 

I called Dole several months ago asking about their #7 containers used for their plastic jarred foods and the little fruit bowls. They DO contain bisphenol A. I had several of these and I returned the ones I had not opened and stopped feeding what I had to my daughter.  As far as Dole’s canned foods, they said all their cans are made of tin and are not lined with plastic.

Del Monte cans however ARE lined with an enamel containing BPA. I had to ask him several times and finally got it out of him and then he immediately got all defensive about it. Obviously they have had many calls about this. I asked if there were any plans to change this and he said “No, the USDA, FDA, etc. all approve the lining.” I said they recall items all the time and so I trust the independent research that shows BPA is dangerous and that I would be looking for another product line for my canned foods. I have sometimes use their corn and green beans for cooking, but will no longer.

I always avoid anything with #7 and anything that is a hard, clear plastic. I would rather be on the safe side. Many people do not worry about BPA, but I do because there are so many other things to worry about like chemicals in shampoos, pesticides on food, antibiotics in meat… If it is something I can easily control, I do it, it’s a simple. It’s easy now to find healthier alternatives. If ever you are concerned, just call the 800# on the package and ask for a direct answer. If the person does not know, kindly ask them if they could find out. If they say the product does contain bisphenol A, ask if there are plans to change it and make it safe. If not, make the request for them to do so and tell them you are not going to purchase any more of their products until there is a change. Many will also say “Our research shows polycarbonate is safe.” Obviously there is enough independent research that proves this is not true.

There are much safer alternative products. For example, Motts, Whole Foods and Earth’s Best all make applesauce containers with #1, #2 or #5 plastic. I am sure there are others. UPDATE: Mott’s (and possible all single serve applesauce) also come in #7 polycarbonate containers. I just called Mott’s and they confirmed they do use polycarbonate for some applesauce containers, but that #1 is also used. Mott’s maintains the FDA says #7 is safe, but we know better, don’t we! So, my advice is to either avoid Mott’s (and possibly all single serve applesauce and fruit) or check the bottom each and every time you make a purchase to make sure you are not selecting a #7 container. Sure is frustrating, but hopefully the FDA will come to their senses soon and ban this toxic substance.

I have not seen any fruit bowls though that are not #7. I have gone to almost all fresh organic fruit, but on the extremely rare occassion I don’t, I use regular canned fruit and veggies (tin containers!). But so much fresh or frozen organic options are available, that canned fruits and veggies just really are not a necessity. Now, I may pull out a can maybe once a month. I no longer used canned tomatoes — i use fresh or do without. I just realized that this was a simple change and really has not had a big impact on our lifestyle.

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Bisphenol-A (BPA) has also been found in the lining of many metal cans of infant formula. Risk is highest in those containing liquid formula. Powdered varieties are still at risk, but to a much lesser degree.

The best way to avoid BPA in formula and baby bottles is to breastfeed. Everyone knows the benefits of breastfeeding. But if you chose not to breastfeed, it’s best to steer clear of liquid formula.

The Environmental Working Group has a good article on this subject. If you must formula feed, there are some good tips to help reduce your baby’s exposure to BPA. If you are not sure if the product you are using contains BPA, call the manufacturer and demand an answer. The only answer you should accept is a “yes” or “no.” If you get a yes, stop using the product immediately and let them know you are doing so until they make a product that is BPA-free.

Parents need to wake up and take serious note of what products they are using with their children. You CANNOT believe manufacturers are looking out for your baby’s best interest, because they are not. They are looking to make a dollar, and that’s it. Parents need to speak up and say we are not going to take this. Demand changes. Choose safer products.

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I called Gerber after seeing the #7 on the bottom of their containers. #7 usually indicates BPA (bisphenol-A), the harmful substance found in polycarbonate plastics. Look at the bottom of all plastic containers. If the recycle symbol contains a #7, avoid it. Most hard plastics are made from polycarbonate. #7 could also mean the plastic is a combination of 2 other types of plastics. This is the case with Gerber’s baby food containers.

Gerber’s containers do not contain BPA, but that does not mean they are safe. It does say #7 on the bottom, but it is a mix of #1 and #6. #6 is styrofoam, which you still want to avoid. Please see this handout for a guide to safer plastic usage for your family.

The concern for plastic chemicals leaching into foods is heightened when the plastic is heated — regardless of the plastic type. Jarred or canned food is typically heated during the canning process. So, the risk is already there before its on the store shelves. If you heat leftover baby food in this container, you are again increasing the risk for leaching. I would recommend avoiding these Gerber plastic containers.

For baby food, I highly recommend Earth’s Best. It’s organic so you are limiting your baby’s exposure to harmful pesticides and the food comes in a glass jar – the safest type of storage container as it does not leach. Del Monte’s Nature’s Goodness and Beech Nut baby foods also come in glass jars. You can also make your own baby food using organic products. I have used very little Gerber baby food and now I am so glad I did and will avoid it like the plague for future children.

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The CDC just released a study on bisphenol A (BPA) and have determined that people’s everyday life exposure to BPA exceeds the no-harm level. Young children and infants are expected to be at the highest risk since they put everything into their mouths. Makes you want to throw out all plastic toys and go all wood! With all the toy recalls, may not be a bad move anyway. Read the article discussing their findings on human BPA exposure.

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Bisphenol A is a harmful chemical found in polycarbonate plastic which is used to make many popular baby bottles and sippy cups, among other things. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical that mimics the action of the human hormone estrogen, which alters our body’s natural pattern. BPA can leach from polycarbonate plastic, usually a hard, clear plastic that is common of many products we use everyday. Effects at even low BPA exposure include prostate cancer, breast cancer, early puberty onset, alterations in gender-specific behavior, decreased sperm count, affects on fertility, behavioral effects including hyperactivity, increased aggressiveness, impaired learning and other changes in behavior, and other problems.

Where is BPA found? Astonishingly, BPA is found everywhere making human exposure widespread.

Baby bottles and sippy cups.
AVOID bottles such as Dr. Brown’s, Avent, clear Evenflo, FirstYears, Platex VentAire, Sassy and TupperCare as they are all contain bisphenol A. On the sippy cup side, avoid Nuby cups with handles coming up from the bottom of the cup, Gerber Soft Starter, and Gerber Suzy’s Zoo & Sippy Snacker.

BPA-free bottles and sippies flagged as safe include: glass bottles, Born-Free, Medela breastmilk storage bottles (made with polypropylene) and disposable bottle systems that have polyethylene plastic inserts. 

And for sippies: Avent Magic Cup, Born-Free, FirstYears Take & Toss, Gerber Color Change, Munchkin Cupsicle, Sigg Baby Water Bottle, Playtex Sipster, and the new Boon Fluid Sippy cup. I also called Luv N Care, makers of the Nuby sippies. Their cups are made with #5 plastic except for the cup with the handles coming up from the bottom. The straw sipper’s sliding closure is also a polycarbonate piece, but since it is not touching liquid, it is considered safe. However, my daughter chews on this, so we will not be using this cup. There are many stainless steel varieties as well such as Kleen Kanteen and Thermos Foogo sippy cup, though these are much more expensive. Avoiding aluminum cups for your child would be recommended as aluminum has been linked to other health issues, including Alzheimer’s.

If you must use a bottle/sippy made with BPA (which is probably rare), you should NEVER store milk in a container made with BPA, as the chemical could leach into the milk. You should also discard any bottles that are scratched, appear cloudy or generally have an altered appearance from their “new” look. Exposing to heat, harsh detergents (no dishwashers) and microwaving can cause leaching. Not sure how many infants want milk that is not warmed. (Of course this means warming the bottle in water, NOT in the microwave.) To me, it’s not worth the risk to use these products. Unfortunate since my daughter used Dr. Brown’s at daycare when I could not nurse her. But fortunately she was mostly nursed, so at least her exposure was limited.

It’s in the lining of canned foods, where it appears to be the most common way to be exposed. BPA can leach into the food inside the can. It’s especially important to note that infants fed canned formula are at the greatest risk. Even fruit in plastic jars may be made with polycarbonate plastic, including the Dole variety. According to Dole, this is the only plastic that can withstand the heat, disturbing since heating polycarbonate plastic is how the BPA can leach into food.

Plastic food containers. Not all containers are made with BPA, but all can leach harmful chemicals when not properly used. NEVER heat food in plastic containers of any kind (this does include Styrofoam containers). Always heat food in a microwave safe container, glass is best. I know you are thinking this is a pain, but so would chemotherapy. Given the choice, I wash the extra dish.

There are 7 types of plastic. Look under most plastic products and in the recycle symbol, there should be a number that indicates the type of plastic it is made from. Numbers 5, 4, 1 and 2 are safe for food. 3, 6 and 7 are not, with 7 being BPA.

Here is a great handout I found that explains the 7 types of plastic and goes into more detail about the 3 harmful ones you want to avoid. Attention bottled water drinkers, there is bad news here for you. Plastic water bottles are typically made from the harmful plastics.

Another good resource is the bisphenol A portal. Has great info and links to a California environmental site. Noteably, California has banned the use of bishenol A in the making of products for children.

It is also important to note that the studies that found these harmful effects were government funded. The industry-funded studies did not find any threat to humans (of course), so if you embark on your own search on bisphenol A, please make sure to note if the study was industry-funded. They have a way of hiding things to protect their bottom line. Searching for and manufacturing safer alternatives can be costly.

Related Articles:

• “Cheat sheet” of BPA-free sippy cups and bottles
• US Government says BPA is harmful
• Pregnant women told to avoid BPA
• Today Show report on BPA & plastic safety
• BPA may lead to health problems such as obesity and ADD/ADHD
• Whole Foods private label canned food contain BPA
• Canned foods and BPA
• BPA is found in infant formula
• Gerber baby food containers
• BPA and other plastic safety
• Z Recommends: The Z Report on BPA In Infant Care Products, Third Edition
• Environmental Working Group: Guide to Baby Safe Bottles & Formula
• Environmental Working Groups Report on BPA in Baby Formula
• Breastmilk contains stem cells
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