A new reprot from the U.S. government has raised concerns that products such as water bottles contain a toxic chemical.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences recently released a draft report on bisphenol A. Also known as BPA, the chemical is used in the manufacture of products with polycarbonate plastics as well as in epoxy resins. Polycarbonate is used to make the hard-plastic water bottles commonly used by outdoor recreationalists for carrying fluids. The concern is that BPA can leech from the plastic into the water, and could cause health problems to consumers.
Possible Effects
The report concludes that there is “some concern” that BPA, “can cause changes in behavior and the brain, prostate gland, mammary gland, and the age at which females attain puberty.” These effects occurred in lab experiments with animals at “low” exposure levels. The government said that although more research is required to determine the impact on humans, the effects of BPA on the lab animals occurred at, “levels similar to those experienced by humans,” and that, “the possibility that bisphenol A may alter human development cannot be dismissed.”
Where is Bisphenol A Found?
The chemical is found in many products, and most Americans have been exposed to it one way or another. This includes the multi-colored water bottles manufactured by such companies as Nalgene. The company’s website provides a guide for consumers to help them determine which products have BPA in them. It also states that Nalgene will phase out bottles that are made with polycarbonate in the next few months. The official website for bisphenol A maintains that polycarbonate plastics are safe. Other products that have BPA include:
· Food and drink packaging.
· Impact resistant safety equipment.
· Compact discs.
· Baby bottles.
· Medical devices.
· Epoxy resins used for the coating in food cans, water pipes, bottles tops.
· Some dental sealants/composites.
How to Determine Which Products Have Polycarbonates
Polycarbonates fall into the category of #7 plastics. This number can be found on the bottom of hard-plastic water bottles, surrounded by the recycle emblem. However, according to the Green Guide by National Geographic, just because a product has a #7 number on it does not mean it always has BPA. Consumers need to do their research if they want to continue to buy plastic water bottles.
Tips for Consumers
· When considering a product made from plastic, visit the company’s website to learn more about it.
· When at the gear store, ask the salesperson if he/she is familiar with plastic products without polycarbonates.
· Consider alternatives to plastics, such as water bottles made from stainless steel.
