Many food and liquid containers are made of polycarbonate or have a lining that contains the chemical bisphenol A (BPA). These containers include baby bottles. BPA is used for the following reasons .

• to harden plastic
• keep bacteria from contaminating food
• prevent cans from rusting

Concerns of BPA in formula cans and baby bottles

There  are concerns about the possible harmful effect of BPA  on humans.  Studies in animals have found an effect on the endocrine function in these animals. There are still ongoing research. As research continues, parents  are following precautionary measures to reduce their baby’s exposure to BPA.

• avoid clear plastic baby bottles or containers with the recycling number 7 and the letters PC imprinted on them. Many contain BPA
• use certified or identified BPA free plastic bottles
• use bottles  made with opaque plastic. These bottles are made of polyethylene or polypropylene and do not contain BPA. You can also look for recycle symbols with the number 2 or 5 in them
• you can  use glass bottles. However  be cautious of injury to you and your baby when the bottle is  dropped and broken
• heat can cause the release of this chemical from plastics. Consider  the following :
  • do not heat polycarbonate  bottles in the microwave
  • do not wash polycarbonate bottles in the washer
  • do not boil polycarbonate bottles

Another way to reduce your baby’s exposure  is by breastfeeding. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding as the main source of nutrition for your baby for about 6 months. When you add solids  to your baby’s diet, continue breastfeeding until 12 months.

When changing from canned liquid to powdered formula, you have to know that the mixing procedures may change so pay special attention when preparing the formula.

If your  baby is on a special formula to address health issues, you should not change to a different formula until you seek your doctors okay. The risk associated with giving babies inappropriate  formulas or alternative milk far out weighs  the potential effect of BPA.

 
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