We are surrounded by plastics from the moment we open our eyes in the morning until we go to bed at night. It is hard to avoid them, even though research is starting to show that they may be associated with certain health problems. Bisphenol A, a component of a hard clear plastics known as polycarbonates, is considered to be one of the major culprits. BPA free plastic containers are being produced today as one of the results of a rising movement against this substance. Consumers are putting pressure on companies as they become more aware of the possible health hazards.
This chemical caught the attention of researchers when it appeared to be affecting mice. This was established to come from the plastic water bottles and cages being used. Many animal studies have been published since then, finding a significant relationship between negative effects on health and exposure to even a small amount of this substance.
The main reason why individuals are so concerned about this substance is that it seeps out into the food and drink. When a container is microwaved this seepage occurs at a much faster rate. It is advisable not to microwave polycarbonate as the chemical bonds break down when exposed to high temperatures too often. Even when a container is washed in a dishwasher or with harsh detergents seepage can be accelerated.
This chemical has been found to act as an endocrine disruptor. This means that it acts like estrogen in the body and even a small amount can cause changes. Some of the health problems suspected to be linked to exposure are breast cancer, testicular cancer, behavioral changes, immune dysfunction and more recently heart problems and diabetes.
Some animal studies have indicated that fetuses and infants are most vulnerable to the effects of this chemical. Pregnant women would do well to try to avoid it as much as possible and parents should also try to reduce exposure of their small children. There is enough evidence available to influence many people to avoid exposure as far as possible.
Unfortunately, this substance is widely used in the manufacture of bottles, plates, food packaging, pouches for food storage, baby cups and a plethora of other items. Even items like tin cans use protective linings containing this substance. As more and more consumers are becoming aware of the suspected negative effects they are putting pressure on companies to provide alternatives.
More and more BPA-free products are now available and they are labeled as BPA-free. If a product is not labeled, keep in mind that some, but not all, plastics marked with recycle codes 3 or 7 may be made with BPA. If one is serious about reducing exposure, it is best to avoid these.
This chemical can be discovered in some unlikely places. For example, they may be found in dental sealants. It may seem an impossible task to reduce exposure when one is surrounded on all sides by plastics. However, the first small step in the right direction may be to purchase products with labels stating that they are BPA-free.
This chemical caught the attention of researchers when it appeared to be affecting mice. This was established to come from the plastic water bottles and cages being used. Many animal studies have been published since then, finding a significant relationship between negative effects on health and exposure to even a small amount of this substance.
The main reason why individuals are so concerned about this substance is that it seeps out into the food and drink. When a container is microwaved this seepage occurs at a much faster rate. It is advisable not to microwave polycarbonate as the chemical bonds break down when exposed to high temperatures too often. Even when a container is washed in a dishwasher or with harsh detergents seepage can be accelerated.
This chemical has been found to act as an endocrine disruptor. This means that it acts like estrogen in the body and even a small amount can cause changes. Some of the health problems suspected to be linked to exposure are breast cancer, testicular cancer, behavioral changes, immune dysfunction and more recently heart problems and diabetes.
Some animal studies have indicated that fetuses and infants are most vulnerable to the effects of this chemical. Pregnant women would do well to try to avoid it as much as possible and parents should also try to reduce exposure of their small children. There is enough evidence available to influence many people to avoid exposure as far as possible.
Unfortunately, this substance is widely used in the manufacture of bottles, plates, food packaging, pouches for food storage, baby cups and a plethora of other items. Even items like tin cans use protective linings containing this substance. As more and more consumers are becoming aware of the suspected negative effects they are putting pressure on companies to provide alternatives.
More and more BPA-free products are now available and they are labeled as BPA-free. If a product is not labeled, keep in mind that some, but not all, plastics marked with recycle codes 3 or 7 may be made with BPA. If one is serious about reducing exposure, it is best to avoid these.
This chemical can be discovered in some unlikely places. For example, they may be found in dental sealants. It may seem an impossible task to reduce exposure when one is surrounded on all sides by plastics. However, the first small step in the right direction may be to purchase products with labels stating that they are BPA-free.
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Get an overview of the benefits of using BPA free plastic containers and view our selection of plastic containers at http://farberwarefoodstorage.com now.
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