CBS News, Deborah Garcia
Published December 6, 2007
NEW YORK (CBS) ― A recent study shows that babies are being exposed to a potentially harmful chemical every time they ingest liquid formula, and that all major U.S. baby formula manufacturers have admitted to use of the plastic's chemical in their cans.
The investigation by the Environment Working Group (EWG) has revealed that the toxic chemical Bisphenol-A (BPA) is used to line nearly all infant formula cans, and can even be found in many plastic baby bottles as well.
"Formula fed infants are particularly at risk, especially infants that are fed ready-to-eat formula," says Jane Houlihan, Vice President of Research for the EWG. "Everyone is exposed by canned foods, but infants are exposed at an even greater level, because pound-for-pound, they get a greater dose of the BPA chemical."
Researchers say BPA acts like the hormone estrogen and can affect a developing brain and reproductive system. The study shows that all major U.S. manufacturers of formula use the chemical, including Nestlé, Ross-Abbot (Similac), MeadJohnson (Enfamil), Hain-Celestial (Earth's Best), and PBM (sold under various names at Walmart, Kroger, Target and other stores).
"There is mounting scientific evidence that BPA is toxic, especially to children," Aaron Freeman, Policy Director with Environmental Defence, says in a statement. "Governments should be acting quickly, starting with a ban on BPA in food and beverage containers."
So what's a parent to do in the meantime?
"Powdered formula contains 10 to 20 times less BPA than the concentrated liquid formulas," Houlihan says.
Many parents already favor using powdered formula because it tends to be cheaper than the liquid form.
"I feel that especially with children, there is always a concern with whatever you feed them. At some point you have to balance and go ahead," says Margaret Kramer, a concerned mother.
Still, the International Formula Council, which represents formula manufacturers, says parents do not need to change how they feed their children.
The EWG has also created an online guide for parents that provides additional information on the study. Click here to visit the guide.
