California legislators weigh ban on BPA, compound found in baby bottles and infant formula containers
As reported in the Los Angeles Times, the California Assembly has put off a final vote on whether to ban the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) from baby bottles and infant formula and baby food containers after an emotional debate over children’s safety.
A ferocious lobbying battle over the legislation has pitted public health and education groups against chemical, pharmaceutical and packaging giants, and has been closely watched around the nation amid similar movements to ban the chemical. As the Times notes, More than 200 peer-reviewed studies on animals and humans have linked BPA to health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, liver problems, brain damage, cancer and hormone disruption. The chemical can accumulate in the human body after leaching into food and beverages from hard plastic containers, especially when heated, and from the epoxy lining of metal cans.
Limited bans on bisphenol A have been enacted in Canada, as well as Connecticut and Minnesota, and in several cities, including Chicago. Congress and about 20 other states are considering restrictions. Under the Bush administration, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration delayed taking action on BPA, saying that its levels did not pose a threat, but members of Congress accused the agency of allowing undue industry influence on its deliberations. More than 60 groups endorsed a California ban, including the Sierra Club, Heal the Bay, and Planned Parenthood Affiliates. Read the full story on the LA Times website.
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