Chemical in Plastic Bottles Raises Health Concerns

From the Associated Press and NBC News Channel:



A chemical used to make water bottles, baby bottles and other shatterproof plastic containers could be linked to a range of hormonal problems, according to a preliminary government study.



The federal National Toxicology Program says researchers found precancerous prostate tumors, urinary system problems and early puberty in rats that were given low doses of the chemical, bisephenol-A (BPA).



BPA is a synthetic chemical compound found in some hard, clear plastics and resins such as food and drink containers, compact discs, electronics and the liners in many metal cans.



Researchers say the studies only provide "limited evidence" of the chemical's risks, but add that the results can't be ignored. The findings echo research by the National Institutes of Health. But a group that represents manufacturers says the study shows that there aren't any "serious" concerns about the effect of the chemical on humans.

    

The FDA says there's not reason to ban or restrict the use of the chemical right now. But at least one lawmaker wants the agency to reconsider that.



Canada's health minister announced Friday that it will ban the import, sale and advertising of polycarbonate plastic baby bottles containing bisphenol A. The ban would go into effect after a 60-day public comment period. The ban would affect only baby bottles and not other food containers made with bisphenol A (BPA).



Canadian health authorities say newborns and infants could suffer developmental problems if exposed to the chemical. Defenders of the chemical say a consumer would have to ingest more than 1,300 pounds of food and drink that had been in contact with polycarbonate every day for a lifetime to exceed the safe level of bisphenol as set by the USEPA.



Wal-Mart says it will immediately stop selling bottles, sippy cups, pacifiers and  water bottles with BPA in its stores in Canada. Wal-Mart stores in this country will phase out plastic products with  BPA more gradually, and are expected to stop selling them completely early next year. Wal-Mart already sells baby bottles that are free of BPA.