If you see a number 7 in the recycling triangle on your baby's bottle, this could mean that it contains Bisphenol A. This chemical, more commonly known as BPA, is mainly used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. BPA can be found in a variety of products, including the lining of food cans, beverage containers, electronic equipment and dental sealants.
The Facts
Since so many different products contain BPA, small amounts of it are present in the human body. You ingest it when you eat and drink, because BPA leaks from plastic into beverages and food. The FDA has stated that the levels found in consumer products are safe for human consumption, although further studies on this are being conducted. Low levels are not considered dangerous, but exposure over time can lead to a larger buildup of BPA.
Significance
In the September 2008 edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Dr. Tibor Hajszan stated that BPA could be harmful to the human brain based on the results of his recent study on primates. In primates exposed to lower levels of BPA than those used in previous studies on rodents, BPA prevented the brain from forming synaptic connections, resulting in possible memory impairments and depression. Due to these findings, there is a growing concern that babies who drink from bottles that contain BPA could suffer from similar harmful effects.
Considerations
Babies are thought to be at greater risk from BPA exposure because they consume more food per pound when compared to adults. Most sources of baby food, including breastmilk, contain at least small traces of BPA. It is found in bottles, baby food containers and cans of formula.
Solutions
Minimizing your baby's exposure to BPA can be achieved in several ways. Look for bottles with a "BPA free" label and use only these when feeding your baby. Warm up formula in a pan on the stove; do not microwave a bottle. Wash bottles in the sink instead of using the dishwasher. Excessive heat exposure leads to a greater amount of BPA being released. Opt for powdered formula over liquid formula. Although the containers for both could have BPA, it will leech into liquid formula more.
Warning
If your baby bottles are older or have been run through the dishwasher several times, look them over closely. Toss them out if you see scratches or any cloudiness. BPA is released at higher levels from plastic surfaces that have been damaged.
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