I am sure by now you have heard about the dangers of Bisphenol-A (BPA) in plastics. The danger lies in that this chemical leaches out of the plastic into the beverages or foods contained within the container.
Most recently, it’s been found that many baby bottles and sippy cups have these chemicals and this doesn’t even include the sports bottles available for our older kids and us when we go to the gym. They use BPA in polycarbonate plastics and will most of the time be designated by a #7 in a recycle symbol on the bottom of the item. However, not all #7 bottles have BPA and not all plastic is marked with any number.

So, what do you do? Well, first, look at the plastic items you have to see if any have distinguishing marks on them. If you are unsure, it’s a good idea to decide if you should take a chance on using the item. There was a report on television that said that the more you use items with BPA, the more of the chemical leaches out. So, if it’s an older item and you are unsure, please keep that in mind.

There alternatives to these items out there. One choice is to confirm if the plastic item definitely doesn’t have BPA. www.SafeMama.com has a list of products detailing which items are BPA free. There is also more detailed information on BPA and how it affects people. You can view this information by clicking here. She also sells some of the products at this website: www.EliteBreastfeeding.com.

Options for adults include glass items and stainless steel. I have seen a number of stainless steel sports bottles for working out. I personally have a to-go coffee mug that is stainless steel on the inside that I use at this time and my daughter has a Hello Kitty stainless steel Thermos we purchased.
Check out www.TheSoftLanding.com for stainless steel and other safe items. Don’t be deterred by the prices as these containers will last for you.

Let’s keep our kids healthy!