Are Hard Plastics Safe? Part 2

by: AndreaDow
Total views: 444
Word Count: 279

Thursday, April 24th

Here is what you need to know to avoid BPA.....thanks to Nutrition Action Healthletter.

1. Look at the bottom of all plastic containers to see whether polycarbonate, which is BPA, is present. Number 7 is what you want to avoid. This number is mostly found in food can liners, Nalgene-type water bottles, disposable cutlery and sippy cups. Recyclers don't even want this stuff! Not all number 7 plastics contain polycarbonate which can be a bit confusing. FYI, the easiest plastic to recycle is number 1. Number 2, 3, 4 and 5 can all be recycled, but with a little more difficulty. Number 6 (styrofoam products) is also very difficult to recycle.

2. Prepare and store food, especially hot foods and liquids, in glass, porcelain and stainless steel dishes or containers.

3. Do not microwave in polycarbonate plastic food containers. The plastic is more likely to break down and release BPA due to high temperatures.

4. Skip putting polycarbonate plastics in the dishwasher because the detergent and heat can release BPA.

5. Use bottles for infants that are BPA free. I use Born Free bottles and really like them (www.newbornfree.com)

6. Instead of canned foods, use fresh or frozen foods. Look for soup that is dried or in cartons. Buy tuna or salmon in pouches instead of cans. Eden Foods is one company that lines its cans with a BPA alternative made from plant extracts.

7. Avoid older versions of Delton dental sealant that release BPA when they come in contact with saliva. Ask your dentist if you can use the newer Delton Plus sealants instead.

Now you have the tools you need to be BPA free!

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