Personal Injury Law

Water Bottles Still Contain BPA

By Jamie G. Goldstein

Summer is just around the corner and that means it's time to stay hydrated. Many Chicagoans try to conserve by using reusable plastic water bottles, but they may want to take a second to reconsider. Many clear, polycarbonate bottles still contain BPA, which can seep into the water. Leaving the bottle in the sun or heating it up can increase this risk. The BPA controversy attracted a lot of attention in 2009, but many may be surprised to learn that it hasn't yet been banned from the market.

What is BPA?

BPA, short for Bisphenol A, is a plastic additive that is used in the inside of plastic bottles, food containers, and even ATM receipts. When ingested into the body, BPA acts like the sex hormone estrogen. Some are concerned that BPA could be harmful to the brain and reproductive organs, especially in the very young. Studies have also linked BPA to breast cancer, obesity, heart disease, prostate cancer, and diabetes. Some scientists say they aren't sure if low doses of BPA cause any harm, but their effects on organs may be so subtle that they're difficult to detect. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences is conducting a $30 million study into the possible health risks associated with BPA, but results won't be forthcoming for at least a year.

Regulation

The Food and Drug Administration has been slow to act, stating that it lacks the capacity to regulate. Chicago has proactively banned the sale of baby bottles and sippy cups made with BPA, but similar measures to protect adults from BPA have not been enacted due to concerns about enforcement. Senator Dianne Feinstein of California recently proposed a ban on BPA in all food containers, but was met with resistance.

Avoiding BPA

Prudent consumers can help limit their BPA exposure by purchasing types of bottles and that are labeled 'BPA free." Bottles with a "#1" or a "#2" imprinted on the bottom are generally safe. Those with a "#7" imprinted on the bottom may or may not contain BPA and should be checked with the manufacturer. Until more research is conducted, it may be safer to stop using polycarbonate bottles alltogether and opt for stainless steel instead.

Full post as published by Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer on May 14, 2010 (boomark / email).