Butting In For Child Safety (spreading the word on BPA)

It was a classic "eve-moment" in the baby isle of the grocery store.  An unsuspecting mother-to-be, heavy with child, anticipation and protective instinct holds a sippy cup in her had with intent to purchase in preparedness for her unborn...

"Excuse me," I always begin, knowing that my interjection could punture her trusting world view "have you heard about the recent research on plastics containing BPA?  Those sippy cups you're holding were the poster-product of the recall suggestion. (They were Nuby brand.)"  Experience has prepared me for a range of responses at this point.  While most mothers are happy to hear information pertaining to the direct safety of thier child, another common response annoyance at my interuptive, know-it-all attitude. 

"No, I haven't.  What's BPA?" Relieved to have a receptive audience, I begin my discourse on the harmful affects of Bisphenol-A, along with suggestions of BPA free products that can be found in the same isle.  On this occasion, the encounter ended with me escorting this pregnant woman across the store to the sporting goods isle to show her the Thermos brand stainless steel sippy cups called Foogo (read product review).

There are many informative and detailed blogs about BPA.  The summary is that BPA is an estrogen disruptor.  It's use is banned in Europe and Canada but it is still currently being used in the US.  BPA is found in #7 plastics (polycarbonate), canned food and some plastic toys.  Polycarbonate water bottles including the popluar Nalgene bottles made prior to year 2008 contain BPA.   Some baby bottles and formula can liners contain BPA.  Actually, the liners of most canned foods contain BPA.

Vitamix containers made prior to 2008 contain BPA, although the company has begun selling new containers that are BPA free (called the Tritan) and are available for sale through the company's website for about $150. 

As in the case of BPA, I wonder how many other toxins will be finally exposed in the media as being harmful to humans after we have been exposed to them for many years already.  For this reason, I feel compelled to interupt pregnant mothers during the joyful project of making a shower registry, to let them know that there is sometimes a safer alternative. 

My eco tip for the day is: Speak out.  I happen to know a little bit of useful information.  You might also know things that can help others make safer decisions for their children and planet. It's important to remember that information is power.  We can empower ourselves and each other by being open and communicating about the world we have found ourselves in.  So much seems out of our control. Who, exactly is putting toxic chemicals in our children's food, food containers and toys?  Talk to strangers about how we can improve our world.  Start small, like I did that day, with a useful tip to help someone protect their loved ones.  Eventually, the light of truth will make our world transparent!  We can help it along!