What is BPA in plastics? What does BPA stand for?

Bisphenol A is an organic compound which is present in some types of plastic and metal, and is also known as BPA. It is controversial in nature, as it has been known to exhibit an effect that is similar to hormones and can be chemically detected. Some of the effects that are being examined as possibly being linked to BPA exposure include: obesity, neurological issues, thyroid function, and cancer, as well as changes to the reproductive system and inappropriate behavior.

There are many different ways in which children or infants can become exposed to BPA. For example, most or all manufacturers within the United States use BPA- based lining for the metal contains of infant formulas. Scientific tests indicate that the BPA can leach from the metal into the formula itself. This has resulted in BPA being detected in formula which uses this in the packaging, as well as similar results in other types of food that also have BPA in the surrounding packaging..

Debate rages as to the exact effect of BPA, and whether it is harmful to humans. Current scientific evidence suggests that BPA is safe, and that health concerns are unnecessary. Scientific and governmental agencies within the United States agree that there is no danger to humans from the BPA that leaches into food from cans. The United States FDA fully supports the use of BPA in food products. However, other scientific organizations, particularly those outside of the United States, consider BPA to be potentially dangerous. In 2010, Canada declared BPA to be toxic substance, and it has been banned in baby bottles in both the European Union and Canada.

Whether you use products that contain BPA or not is entirely a personal decision. However, nowadays there are alternatives that can limit your exposure and that of your children to BPA. When examining plastics, a good indication is that products which contain the recycling label #7, are likely to contain BPA. If one is attempting to avoid the potential side effects of BPA, then a good start is to avoid plastics with the labeling #7, especially for children’s food.

One such product is Dr. Brown’s newborn bottle-feeding set. This set of five bottles is entirely free from BPA, so there is no risk of contamination. This is especially important, as newborns are very vulnerable. This set is dishwasher safe and is very easy to clean.

The Philips AVENT range offers a similar product. This is a set of six four Oz. BPA free bottles.

Another product that Philips offers within the same range is a BPA-free teether. This product is easy for the baby to hold and place in his or her mouth. This helps to sooth the pain that is associated with teething and to massage the baby’s gums.

A final product in the Philips AVENT line is a freeflow pacifier, designed for children between zero and six months of age. These are available in a range of colors and can be used any way around (upside down or right side up).

These products are a few examples of the numerous BPA-free products that are available.