Plenty has been said in the media and social circles about the detriments of Bisphenol A (or BPA) in the plastic used to make things like baby bottles and food containers: it can cause health problems, and can leach into food from the containers themselves, leading to worries about the effects on both us and our kids. In 2010, the Australian Government started a voluntary phase-out of BPA in the manufacture of baby bottles, but there is no mandatory standard or ban for its use in other products, such as plastic containers and canned goods. However, there are things we can do to protect our families from sources of BPA. Here how.
Check the numbers on containers. You know those recycle codes on the bases of plastic containers? Steer clear of any marked with a 3 or 7. These can also be found in things like teething rings and toys, so check all plastic products before you buy.
If you’re not certain about a particular plastic, don’t microwave it, put it in the dishwasher or use it to store hot food. Heat can cause plastics to leach toxic chemicals into foods, so don’t use dodgy containers in the microwave or spoon hot foods, like leftovers, directly into plastic boxes. And are you guilty of leaving plastic bottles of water or other drinks in the car? Stop! Bottles left in the sun can also be adversely affected by the heat.
Try to eat less canned food. The quality of canned foods, like beans, fruit and vegies, is very good – it’s the lining inside the can itself that compromises its safety. Fresh produce is always preferable but in other instances, look for glass containers, or opt for frozen vegies and dried beans. And don’t forget canned drinks – look for glass bottles or safe plastics instead.
When in doubt, don’t. Most glass and ceramic bowls and containers can be safely used in the freezer, microwave and dishwasher, so if you’re aren’t sure that your plastic containers and bottles are safe, choose something you can be sure of instead.
Good to know: Qubies trays and reusable pouches are free from BPA, phthalates and PVC.