Problems With Plastic Storage Boxes & How To Avoid Them

Saturday, March 6th, 2010 at 11:16 am

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The main problem with plastic storage boxes involves a compound called Bisphenol A (BPA), which may be found in a number of hard plastic containers, such as infants’ bottles, sports bottles, and other sources. It is conjectured that BPA may cause harm to the reproductive capacities of animals, and may be harmful, in turn, to humans.

A study conducted by the FDA in 2008, deemed BPA completely safe, despite a number of studies on animals that suggested otherwise. This information was recently updated by the FDA, which now states that recent technological developments have allowed for a more thorough study to take place, which has caused some “… concern over the effects of BPA on the brain, behavior, and prostate gland in fetuses, infants and young children.”

The FDA is now pursuing steps to reduce the amount of human exposure to BPA, which includes support of the industries attempts to discontinue the production of BPA-containing baby bottles and cups. Additionally, they are encouraging the creation of alternatives for BPA containing baby formula linings, as well as other food linings. At the same time, the FDA is attempting to place a more rigorous framework in place for the regulation of the production of BPA containing products. Finally, it is continuing to listen to the public’s comments regarding BPA production and the potential harms of BPA.

While that will ensure lower exposure in years to come, there are some easy ways for everyone to personally reduce the amount of BPA in their body and the bodies of their children.

To help your baby avoid BPA, simply purchase BPA-free plastic bottles from the store. This will ensure that the baby is not exposed on a daily, recurring basis.
For everyone in the household, remove old cups, bottles, especially those that are scratched. While BPA does not normally leak out of these containers, scratches or tears on the surface of the plastic will allow BPA to escape if it was used to produce the container.
Avoid placing hot liquids or food in containers that may have BPA, as heat, too, may cause BPA to escape into the liquid.
When using the microwave, use glass or ceramic; avoid old plastic containers.
As BPA may also be found in canned goods, be sure to buy fresh produce or frozen goods rather than purchasing canned food.
Drink tap water, as water bottles may contain BPA, including the large, 50-gallon containers one may find in office buildings.

BPA may not be extremely harmful to the body, but it has the potential to raise significant health risks for infants, as the majority of BPA containing products are focused on infants (formula liners, bottle liners, milk bottles). Some recommend breast feeding if at all possible in order to avoid an infant’s ingestion of the BPA compound. While the scope of the harm caused by ingestion of BPA cannot yet be estimated, it cannot hurt to be careful in the meantime. Following these steps will ensure the significant reduction of BPA exposure, and may help avert health risks.