Are You Concerned About BPA? New Research Suggests You Should Be.

Even though the controversy over the chemical additive isn't new by any means, BPA is still frequently in the news. Just this week, North Carolina State University released a summary of the results of a study on the harmful effects of BPA. The study confirms what numerous others have found--that exposure to bisphenol A or BPA early in life can lead to changes in gene expression. These changes have been linked to anxiety disorders in men and women and impaired prostate function in men.

It's studies like these that are the cause behind the push to have BPA banned in many parts of the world. Earlier this week, an environmental group testified in a hearing at the Maine State Chamber as the discussion over a bill to prohibit the sale of plastic products that contain BPA continues. Complete and partial bans of BPA are already in place in more than 10 states.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has banned the use of BPA in baby bottles, but many polycarbonate plastic products still contain the chemical. Many of these products have the number 7 recycling symbol printed on them, but others do not. Since it can be difficult to tell which items in your cupboard contain BPA, the best way to protect your children from the additive is to switch to sustainable, plastic alternatives, such as bamboo drinkware, plates and silverware. BPA is often used to line aluminum cans, too, so limiting your use of canned foods and drinks can also help protect your kids from the chemical.

Paperless Kitchen wants to know, "Are you concerned about BPA? What steps have you taken to eliminate it in your home?" 


Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.

Back to the top