Tell FDA that you don’t want BPA in food packaging!

Bisphenol-A Molecule

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used for over 40 years for the production of food grade containers including baby bottles and linings of food and beverage cans. In 2008, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ruled BPA safe for use in “food-related” materials. However, recent studies conducted with BPA on laboratory animals have brought concern to the toxicity of BPA, especially in young children.

On March 31st, the FDA will be ruling whether or not to continue to allow this potentially dangerous chemical to be used in food-related products, including infant formula cans.

How harmful is BPA and why should you voice your concerns to the FDA?

Placenta cells can die after exposure to BPA

Study Shows Placenta Cells Die After Exposure to BPA

Those pregnant or considering starting a family should take note of a study reported in Environmental Health News which showed die off in human placenta cells exposed to BPA. The study used low doses of BPA exposure on human placenta cells and found damage and death 1.3 to 1.7 times higher than those not exposed to the chemical. While more research is needed, results indicate concern for pregnant mother’s exposure to BPA. Possible health concerns include preeclampsia, low fetal weight gain, pregnancy loss and premature birth. While further studies continue, pregnant mothers should reduce exposure to BPA by avoiding products made with the chemical including cans and water bottles.

{cc photo courtesy of Emery Co Photo on Flickr}

Lining of the cans may contain BPA

BPA Disrupts Hormones

Parents of girls will want to research a study reported in the Environmental Health Perspectives journal citing BPA exposure to potential lowering of the age of puberty in rats as well as linkage of BPA to permanent reproductive alterations in reproductive hormones. The study conducted on rats actually relates to studies among humans. As reported in USA Today, Sand Steingraber of the Breast Cancer Fund reported that “Over the last 30 years, we’ve shortened the childhood of girls by about a year and a half. The article also discusses an all too familiar case of a young girl beginning puberty at the age of seven. Is the convenience of plastic and BPA-tainted products worth our young girls growing breasts and menstruating well before their time?

{CC Image by Maureen Lunn via Flickr}

BPA may cause erectile dysfunction

BPA May Cause Erectile Dysfunction

Sexually active men and their partners should pay attention to a study conducted with a sampling of 600 Chinese workers reviewing the effects of BPA factory exposure on sexual function in the areas of erectile and ejaculatory capabilities, sexual desire, and sex life satisfaction. Lead author, Dr. Dee-Kun Li concluded, “Our findings provide the first evidence that exposure to BPA in the workplace could have an adverse effect on male sexual dysfunction.” Already connected to hormonal disturbances, these findings linking to sexual function are alarming . When a healthy sex life is on the line, shouldn’t possible implications caused by BPA warrant reduction of that chemical in your daily life?

{cc photo courtesy of on Thompson Chan Flickr}

BPA is linked to breast cancer

BPA Links to Breast Cancer

The prevalence of breast cancer is becoming more common in younger women so all women should note that the Breast Cancer Fund reviewed several studies revealing numerous connections to health implications cause by BPA exposure. For women undergoing cancer treatment, exposure to BPA decreased the efficacy of chemotherapy. BPA also is believed to possibly increase the growth of cancerous tumors in breast tissue. In possibly one of the most disturbing commentaries, it was reported that BPA exposure caused normal breast tissue cells to behave like cancer cells.

{Image of woman having a mammogram via shutterstock}

The Environmental Working Group is urging you to send the letter to FDA, telling them that you DON’T WANT BPA in food packaging! The deadline is March 31st so sign your letter today! And share this news with your friends and family. Spread the word!

{source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Service, Environmental Health Perspectives, Environmental Health News, Medical News Today, Breast Cancer Fund, USA Today}

What are your feelings on BPA and how it could potentially affect your Family. Are you voicing your concerns to the FDA?

Get the Green Living Ideas book in softcover or PDF for as low as $2.99!

Please follow and like us:

Tags: BPA, breast cancer, erectile dysfunction, health, hormones, plastic

About the Author

Vivian Nelson Melle Vivian Nelson Melle is a writer and life coach helping individuals, families, and businesses thrive. She supports small businesses especially in the areas of Green Living, Health, and Wellness. She can be found at www.viviannelsonmelle.com and www.craftyvivi.com