Bisphenol A & BADGE

Bisphenol a (BPA), a synthetic estrogen used to harden polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resin, is the focus of a growing number of research studies and legislative actions, reflecting mounting scientific evidence that it causes serious and sometimes irreversible damage to health, even at the low doses to which people are routinely exposed. In laboratory tests, trace BPA exposure been shown to disrupt the endocrine system and trigger a wide variety of disorders, including chromosomal and reproductive system abnormalities, impaired brain and neurological functions, cancer, cardiovascular system damage, adult-onset diabetes, early puberty, obesity and resistance to chemotherapy.

BPA is one of the highest production chemicals in international commerce. An estimated 6 billion pounds of BPA are produced globally annually, generating about $6 billion in sales. It is fabricated into thousands of products made of hard, clear polycarbonate plastics and tough epoxy resins, including safety equipment, eyeglasses, computer and cell phone casings, water and beverage bottles and epoxy paint and coatings. But BPA-based plastics break down readily, particularly when heated, washed with strong detergent or stored with acidic foods like tomatoes.

In March 2007, Environmental Working Group published a ground-breaking study documenting that online guide to baby-safe bottles and formula.

EWG GUIDES

• Guide to Baby-Safe Bottles & Formula
• Tips to Avoid BPA Exposures