Although completely eliminating exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) may not be possible, there are steps you can take to reduce your family’s exposure to this chemical by avoiding common sources and limiting exposure for the highest risk groups.

The developing fetus and baby are the most vulnerable to BPA’s toxic effects. Unfortunately they also have the most intense BPA exposure of any age group. Many parents who have replaced their polycarbonate baby bottles are unaware that BPA contaminates liquid baby formula sold in metal cans. Since formula can make up 100% of a baby’s diet over her first 6 months of life, parents should choose BPA-free types

Adults ingest much less BPA than babies. But a recent study linking BPA exposures in adults to heart disease and diabetes raises concerns about the safety of current exposures. Adult exposure comes primarily from canned foods and polycarbonate food containers, but BPA-containing medical devices could also be a source. Pregnant women and older children should avoid BPA. Eat a varied diet, avoid canned foods, and don’t use polycarbonate plastics for warm food or drinks.

BPA in formula and baby bottles

The federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimates that babies have 12.5 times more BPA exposure than […]