Why We Should Say ‘No’ to BPA
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What is BPA?BPA or bisphenol-A, is an industrial chemical used to make hard plastics such as polycarbonate bottles,food containers and can lining. Scientific studies have shown that it disrupts hormones in the body and could contribute to breast cancer, prostate cancer and infertility. |
BPA is an endocrine-disruptor that has been found to be especially dangerous in fetal and infant development. Research has suggested that babies lack the enzymes needed to detoxify and eliminate this chemical, causing it to linger in the body much longer than adults.The area of risk that has been highlighted to date is when hard plastic baby bottles are heated (such as in microwaves) since BPA could be transferred to milk and infant formula.
What is Health Canada doing?
In October, Canada became the first country to designate BPA as a toxic substance. Health Canada has proposed banning it from baby bottles and limiting its use in infant formula packaging. They are proposing further study and working with the food packaging industry to consider the impacts and alternatives. There is also concern about the environmental damage this substance is doing as it leaches from landfills and is contaminating our drinking water sources. The government is also looking to set regulations to protect the environment.
| What are food manufacturers doing?Manufacturers can choose to provide BPA-free packaging, it just costs more. Vince’s Market has just launched Eden Organics in their stores. Eden’s bean cans are BPA-free and have been for 10 years. |  |
Their president was alarmed by the alarming information on BPA that was already surfacing at that time. He asked a simple question – what was used to line cans before BPA? The solution still existed, but at a higher cost – a price that he decided was worth it for his family and his customers. 10 years later, that decision is paying off, as it clearly demonstrates the philosophy and ethics of his company.
Read the story on how Eden Foods went BPA-free…. Why Eden went BPA-fee
Is BPA in my water bottle?
There are many new products such as water bottles and food packaging that advertise “BPA-free”. How do you know if your water bottles contain BPA? Look on the bottom of your bottle for a number 5 symbol on the bottom. This could indicate that the bottle has BPA. You could also call the manufacturer or visit their website. Some people are opting to switch to stainless steel or glass water bottles instead.
For more information on BPA check out the following links:
Want more information on Health Canada’s decision? Check out the Health Canada fact sheet
Here are some frequently asked questions on BPA – FAQ on BPA
Remember that staying informed on the chemicals in your food is important. Choosing food packaging that is BPA-free is good for your health and sends a message to manufacturers with your hard-earned dollars.
Why do you think BPA regulations are important?
“Scientific studies have shown that it disrupts hormones in the body and could contribute to breast cancer, prostate cancer and fertility.”
I believe that should read “INfertility”.
Thanks for catching that Julie! You are absolutely right. BPA has shown disturbing effects of infertility and miscarriage in animal studies. Although the FDA scientist claim that “a margin of safety exists at current levels of exposure”, Health Canada has chosen to take a more precautionary approach and take a closer look at what levels are safe for humans.