Why you should only buy BPA Free products?

We read about it all the time and I'm sure you do too! The watch-word "BPA Free" is everywhere these days... But what does it mean exactly? Is it bad? What is all the fuss about?

BPA stands for bispenol A, which is an industrial chemical used in plastics and resins. Since the 1960s, it is found in polycarbonate plastics (commonly used in food and beverage containers), in epoxy resins (that typically coat food cans, bottle tops and even the lines of our water supply) and some dental composites.

Alright, so the FDA allows BPA to be used in the production of baby products. But guess what? Many countries are being much more conservative about it. The Canadian government, for instance, has banned all baby bottles made with BPA. Hats off to them! There is a bigger push in America to source bottles and containers that are free of BPA since researchers have found that sustained exposure to the chemical was harmful to babies and adults alike.

BPA can seep into food and beverages from BPA laden containers, and the consumption of the chemical has potential detrimental effects on the brain, behavior and prostate gland of fetuses, infants and children. As we write, the FDA is still evaluating the controversial substance... In the meantime, the best thing you can do to avoid any shred of doubt is to seek out products labelled as BPA Free or use glass if you prefer (we carry a great line of glass baby bottles).

• Seek out BPA-free products. If a product isn't labeled as BPA Free, some but not all plastics marked with recycle codes 3 or 7 may be made with BPA.
• Avoid cans. Try to avoid or reduce your use of canned foods as most are lined with BPA resins.
• Avoid microwaving and dishwashing. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences has warned against microwaving polycarbonate plastics or putting them in the dishwasher, because the plastic may break down over time; allowing BPA to leach into foods and beverages.
• Seek alternatives. Glass, stainless steel and porcelain containers are a great alternative to plastic containers.