Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a chemical compound found in polycarbonate plastics, which are hard, clear, lightweight plastics and resins. It's used in the production of baby and water bottles and food and drink containers, sports equipment, medical and dental devices, lenses, household electronics, compact discs and DVDs, automobile parts, and as a liner in some metal cans including those containing food.
Low doses of BPA can cause the body to mimic the its own hormone production, causing potential negative effects that include heart disease, liver failure, and diabetes. These effects are considered to be at strongest risk for infants and children; there is some concern that fetuses, infants and children exposed to BPA may be at increased risk for early-onset puberty and prostate and breast cancer.
Risks associated with the use of BPA-containing polycarbonate products can be avoided or minimized by using glass baby bottles, stainless steel drinking bottles, and glass, stainless, or porcelain food storage containers. The risk from the inner lining of food cans is thought to be mimimal, but canned infant formula is generally now avoided. In addition, The National Toxicology Panel recommends avoiding microwaving food in plastic containers, putting plastics in the dishwasher, or using harsh detergents, to avoid leaching.
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