Congress Asks: Is Baby Formula In Safe Cans?

Some Answers Sought From Abbott Nutrition

Columbus Dispatch, Spencer Hunt
Published January 22, 2008

Abbott Nutrition, which makes infant formula, faces a congres- sional inquiry into a potentially toxic chemical. Members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee want to know whether the Columbus company, formerly known as Ross Products, uses bisphenol A in the lining of formula cans. They also want to know if Abbott tested to see whether the compound leaks from the metal cans into the liquid. Several studies have linked bi- sphenol A to health issues in lab animals, including tumors and reproductive problems. Other experts say it's no threat to people. The committee's staff sent letters to Abbott and other U.S. infant-formula manufacturers last week requesting the information. The company did not return calls for comment yesterday, but environmental and industry groups said the chemical is used in Abbott cans. Bisphenol A has been used since the 1950s to make shatter- and heat-resistant plastic bottles and food containers. It's also used to make corrosion-resistant resin linings in food and drink cans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 90 percent of U.S. residents have some bisphenol A in their body. Many researchers say studies on animals suggest it could cause altered immune systems, learning disabilities and breast and prostate problems in humans. Chemical industry officials argue it is safe, pointing to different studies that have found no problems at the levels humans consume. That includes a federal advisory panel for the National Institutes of Health, which in August found little risk. Steve Hentges, a chemist and spokesman with the American Chemistry Council, said most people consume far less of the chemical than allowed under federal standards. Those standards say it should not be more than 50 parts per billion of people's daily food intake. Anila Jacob, senior scientist with the Washington, D.C.-based Environmental Working Group, said problems can occur at much lower levels. She said laboratory tests that the group performed on different infant formulas found the chemical in Similac, a brand Abbott makes. "We hope that these infant-formula-makers can find a safer alternative for their products," Jacob said. Marisa Salcines, spokeswoman for the Atlanta-based International Formula Council, which represents formula-makers, also said Abbott uses bisphenol A. But she said the amount in the cans is too small to be a concern. Officials with the Energy and Commerce Committee declined to comment. The chairman of the committee, Michigan Democratic Rep. John Dingell, asked Abbott and the other companies to send their answers within the next two weeks. "It would seem obvious that we would try to protect babies and infants from chemicals that may be considered dangerous to adults," Dingell said in a written statement. shunt@dispatch.com