Bisphenol-A Under Scrutiny, Bans Considered

Monday, May 26, 2008 by: Adam Miller
Tags: Bisphenol-A, health news, Natural News

(NewsTarget) In the wake of breaking new evidence, the United States government is expressing concern over the safety of the controversial chemical bisphenol-A as Health Canada designates it a dangerous substance.

Bisphenol-A is a chemical used in the manufacture of common polycarbonate plastic products including baby and water bottles. Commonly referred to as BPA, the chemical has long drawn criticism from health advocates and environmentalists alike. BPA has a tendency to leach into food and liquid held in contaminated containers, and as a result it has been found in the body of almost 100% of young children in randomized populations.

A study done by the U.S. National Toxicology Program -- a division of the National Institutes of Health -- examined the biological effects of the substance in laboratory animals. The researchers found that BPA caused precancerous tumors, urinary tract issues, and early onset puberty in mice at low level exposure. This evidence lends itself to the argument that BPA is a contributing factor behind the progressively higher numbers of children experiencing early onset puberty, which has even been reported in children as young as three. The agency made the conservative announcement that this study provides evidence which, while limited, "cannot be dismissed."

Following the announcement, Health Canada has set the stage for a ban by designating BPA a 'dangerous substance,' while major U.S. retailers such as Wal-Mart are announcing that BPA-free baby bottles and other products will soon be on the shelves, citing consumer concern as their motivation.

"We're hoping this decision will force the FDA to recognize the toxicity of this chemical and make manufacturers set a safety standard that's protective of the most vulnerable populations," remarked Anila Jacobs of the Environmental Working Group. A U.S. ban does not seem imminent at this time, but Senator Chuck Schumer (D – NY) is expected to introduce such legislation to congress by the end of April. "There's enough warning signs to show the need to act sooner than later," the senator explained.

Industry trade group the American Chemistry Council (ACC) is holding to their previous position, stating that the study confirmed that current exposure is too low to cause problems, and that the story is simply being overblown by the media. This is hardly enough to curb the increasingly fiery calls from consumer groups and others who wish to see the potentially dangerous substance banned.

About the author

Adam Miller is a student of life who has dedicated literally thousands of hours of personal research on top of formal institutional training in Dietetics to learn the secrets of achieving vibrant health and extended lifespan. His passion and dedication is in bringing the best ideas for self-empowerment through nutrition and nutraceuticals as well as alternative therapies, technology, and information to the public through various means.