Children, in particular, are at risk because plastics are used in toys, feeding bottles, feeding cups, spoons, bibs, pacifiers and such. The matter came under spotlight after the recall of plastic toys containing lead. There is a growing concern after the evidence that plastics of the polycarbonate variety contain the hormone mimicking chemical Bisphenol A (BPA). This chemical is a plastic hardener and is used even in the manufacture of feeding bottles.Not only BPA, but other chemicals present in plastic too, are a matter of concern. Thankfully, the industry is waking up to consumer demands, albeit slowly. Baby products of some of the leading brands come with ‘phthalate free’ and ‘BPA free’ labels. Maybe it is time we revert to tried and trusted glass and stainless steel. I must add that the Food and Drug Administration of the USA maintains that polycarbonates are safe but the scientific panel constituted by the National Institutes of Health of the USA indicates the need for caution based on animal studies. It is assumed that leaching of BPA into foods may not be high enough to cause damage to human health. Scientists do agree that leaching into foods could increase under high heat, in acidic mediums such as tomato purees or juices and also with wear and tear. Alternative material is already occupying prominent shelf space at big stores in the US. Interestingly some of these are made from cornstarch, stainless steel and glass. Not that such material is free from all drawbacks. The glass bottles are much heavier for the kids to handle. Yet another trade off will be the higher initial costs. All the same, this change does bring some comfort to me. For one, I feel that we may be getting closer to nature and may also be helping the environment. And of course we may be protecting the health of future generations.nsingh.rxpress@expressindia.com
