Baby Bottles Made With BPA May Pose Health Risks to Children - Wal-Mart and Toys R Us Stop Selling Bottles with Bisphenol A

Bisphenol A (BPA), the chemical used to make clear plastic hard and shatterproof, is commonly used in many baby bottles and reusable water bottles. The newest information indicates that the chemical could pose health risks to humans.

The U.S. National Toxicology Program has concluded that "there is some concern for neural and behavioral effects in fetuses, infants, and children at current human exposures," and that there is "some concern for bisphenol A exposure in these populations based on effects in the prostate gland, mammary gland, and an earlier age for puberty in females."

The NTP also concluded that there is negligible concern that "exposure of pregnant women to bisphenol A will result in fetal or neonatal mortality, birth defects or reduced birth weight and growth in their offspring" or that it causes adverse effects in exposed adults.

Since the news that BPA has been linked to these health problems, Canada has proposed a ban on BPA, and both Wal-Mart and Toys R Us have opted to stop selling plastic baby bottles that contain BPA. Baby bottle manufacturer Playtex also said that it would stop using the chemical in its products.

Despite the allegations that BPA may be harmful, the American Chemistry Council is steadfast in its assertion that reports on BPA issues in the U.S. and Canada “provide no new relevant information regarding the safety of bisphenol A.” The council also maintains that polycarbonate bottles can continue to be safely used. It should be noted, however, that the American Chemistry Council represents companies that manufacture plastics, including those that use BPA in products.

Parents who are worried about the effects that BPA might have on their children may want visit the following resources:

• How to avoid BPA-containing products from US News and World Report.
  
• Green Guide to plastic containers - National Geographic lists products that are safer and those you should avoid.
  
• List of BPA-Free drinkware for toddlers.