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BPA, Hidden Chemicals … What to Do to Protect Yourself A recent front page article in The Washington Post, above the fold, states, “Law allows companies to hide risks of chemicals”--- what does this mean to you? Another controversy bubbling up in the public debate concerns the chemicals used to make plastics, which come with risks to human health and the environment. Bisphenol A, abbreviated as BPA, is a chemical found in thousands of everyday products from baby bottles, canned foods, canned soft drinks, food packaging, and plastic containers to compact discs (CDs) and recycled papers. Levels of BPA run from high to low in thousands of products. Even in cases where the manufacturer claims BPA-free in their products, measurable levels have been detected. Now, the FDA promised to reconsider BPA in food packaging after the drug agency called it safe in 2008. Should we be concerned? BPA has been linked to breast cancer, as well as ovarian, prostate and brain cancers. Other serious disorders are ranging from cardiovascular diseases to developmental defects, early onset of puberty, and behavioral changes in children. Research has shown that we are exposed to it more than we had previously thought. The chemical has been detected in the urine of 93-95% of the population tested in the United States, based on different studies. In reality, it is not easy for consumers to make decisions about what they should or should not use, and it is not fair either that consumers must make somehow uniformed decisions. Labeling requirements of ingredients vary with products, and many product "recipes" are actually secret! As a result, most retailers don't know what chemicals are in the products they’re selling, and neither do we. The laws should govern safety. The government should do a better job making sure the chemicals — particularly the chemicals used in every day products — are thoroughly tested before they are moved to the market, and subsequently into our bodies. Obviously, the laws that control how chemicals are assessed and labeled are not being followed. This problem needs fixing, but the question is when will it happen? After all, we have the facts and consequences. It is clear that "safe" claims from industries coupled with ineffective laws will continue the threat of BPA. This is not in our best interest! All hidden chemicals and those commonly used in consumer daily products may pose threats to public health. Therefore, more important than ever, we need to watch out closely for ourselves, make well-educated decisions for our long-term health benefits, and take action for our safety. How to avoid or minimize your exposure to BPA BPA is not only from canned drinks and canned food, but also from various hidden sources. 1. Importantly, be aware of the recycling number found on the bottom of plastic bottles or containers. Be sure to toss those products with a number “7” recycling code, as they contain BPA. Reportedly, there are new “7” products that are claimed “BPA-free” by the manufacturers. Sadly, “BPA-free” on labels may not always be true, since BPA was actually detected from some of them. 2. Use glass bottles for babies, or at least BPA-free plastic bottles. 3. Use glass, stainless steel or porcelain containers for hot food or liquids. 4. Microwave food in glass, ceramic or BPA-free plastic containers. 5. Avoid putting plastic containers in a dishwasher or using harsh detergents. 6. Reduce the intake of canned foods, canned soft drinks. Eat fresh or frozen vegetables. 7. Limit handling printed receipts at the gas station or from automated machines. In summary, more and more conveniences we have enjoyed over the years are discovered to be potentially harmful to our health. It is time to set you own standards, so that you can protect yourself and your loved ones from any health problems or illnesses. |
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