Plastic products, toys, and food packaging are
everywhere, and are a part of our everyday lives. Unfortunately, many plastic
products contain harmful chemicals. We are only beginning to understand the
health threats, especially to babies and young children. While everyone should
be mindful about their own exposure to these chemicals, it is particularly
important that parents, grandparents, and others taking care of young children are
aware of the need to limit children’s exposure to toxic chemicals. A few small,
easy changes in how you store and heat foods and what toys your child plays
with can reduce exposure to toxic chemicals that pose risks to child
development.
Soft plastics and phthalates: PVC plastics—those pliable, gummy-like
plastics—are laden with phthalates, chemicals that have been linked to
premature birth, reproductive defects, early onset of puberty in girls, and
reduced sperm quality in adult males. PVC is used in everything from home
building materials to food packaging to children’s toys. Phthalates can leach
out of these products, which is particularly concerning for children who
explore the world by putting things in their mouths. While many manufacturers
have removed phthalates from toys and other products intended for very young
children, there is no law requiring this and very few products are labeled as
such.
Hard plastics and bisphenol A: Polycarbonate plastic, which is hard,
shatter resistant, and often clear in color, contains bisphenol A, a
hormone-disrupting chemical linked to Down’s syndrome, early onset of puberty,
obesity, hyperactivity, and breast and prostate cancer. Almost all plastic baby
bottles are made from polycarbonate plastic, as well as popular reusable water
bottles (like some Nalgene brand bottles) and large water cooler jugs. In
addition, a resin made with bisphenol A coats the inside of aluminum and tin
food cans. Bisphenol A leaches readily into food and liquids. There is no law
prohibiting its use, and currently, very few manufacturers have taken any
action to stop using polycarbonate plastic in their products.
Products To Avoid
• Food containers with polycarbonate
plastic: Avoid #7 recycling code and those with a “PC” on the bottom/underside
of the product
• Canned foods
• Foods wrapped in plastic
• Plastic baby bottles
Choosing Safer Products
• Look for “PVC Free” labels on toys
• Choose wood toys
• Choose plastic food containers labeled
with #1, #2, or #5 recycling code on the bottom, though you still should not
heat food in these plastic containers.
• Opt for glass: For baby bottles and
food containers, look for glass options rather than plastics or cans. Heat food
in glass containers.
• Buy ceramic, metal, or enamel plates
and feeding utensils
If You Use Plastic Toys or Containers
• Don’t let children put plastic toys in
their mouths
• Never heat food or beverages in plastic
bottles or containers
• Don’t let milk sit in plastic baby
bottles for long periods
• Don’t use harsh detergents or hot water
when washing plastic baby bottles or containers. Never put in dishwasher
• Throw away plastic bottles that look
scratched or hazy
