Why should baby bottles be BPA-free?
Serious health problems associated with BPA chemical
Recent studies have added to overwhelming scientific evidence that Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a harmful chemical that should not be allowed to contaminate food.
BPA (Bisphenol A) is found in polycarbonate plastics – used to make all sorts of household articles, including baby bottles and this is where it is most dangerous, because BPA molecules migrate into milk in the bottle, especially when it is heated or microwaved. Read more about CANSA’s research on BPA and listen to a radio interview on SAFM regarding the dangers of BPA in baby bottles.
When babies drink the milk, BPA molecules are absorbed into their bodies. The problem is that BPA acts as an artificial hormone and can disrupt the baby’s hormonal development, leading to serious health problems later in life. These include hormonal disorders, premature puberty, childhood obesity, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer and breast cancer. View video clip here…
Unfortunately BPA containing baby bottles are still available in most stores, although they have been banned in Canada, Denmark, France, China and Malaysia. Thankfully, South African companies are stepping up to take responsibility and are committing to manufacturing BPA-free baby bottles. Read press release regarding NUK’s BPA-free baby bottle range.
CANSA launced a viral awareness campaign in June 2011, asking members of the public to sign an online petition calling on our Minister of Health to ban the use of BPA in baby bottles.
Avoid any bottle that is not completely BPA free. If you are not sure, don’t take chances. Get your baby a new one with the CANSA Smart Choice Seal. NUK produces a range of BPA-FREE bottles, the first brand to exhibit the CANSA Smart Choice Seal.
- Download the ‘Plastic Identification Codes’ list (supplied by Plastics|SA).
How can you support the BPA-Free Baby Bottles Campaign?
- Join Facebook group: BPA-Free Babies to stay up to date with breaking news and make your voice heard
- Buy BPA-free baby bottles
- Queries: info@cansa.org.za or toll free line at 0800 22 66 22
