The FDA May Want to Reconsider BPA

By: Christopher Forestieri

Bringing your own water bottle has it’s benefits. Staying hydrated is important, especially for those on the move, and purchasing bottled water daily can be expensive and extremely wasteful.

But, a chemical in many reusable plastic water bottles called bisphenol A (BPA) can lead to an array of health problems including prostate cancer and diabetes.

Interestingly, a study by the Food and Drug Administration declared products containing BPA safe for use, dismissing calls for a federal ban on products containing BPA.

However, a recent article in the Washington Post by Annys Shin, states that “The Food and Drug Administration ignored scientific evidence and used flawed methods when it determined that a chemical widely used in baby bottles and in the lining of cans is not harmful, a scientific advisory panel has found.”

The article notes that a scientific panel concluded that the “FDA did not take into consideration scores of studies that have linked bisphenol A (BPA) to prostate cancer, diabetes and other health problems in animals” concluding that the “FDA's margin of safety is ‘inadequate.’”

One of the main dangers of BPA, which is also used in most baby bottles and cans of liquid formula, is its potential to harm infants who are more susceptible to it’s adverse effects. In response, many retailers now carry BPA free baby bottles and formula containers.

And for the eco-conscious and the thrifty who want to carry a reusable bottle, the market is now flush with aluminum based, BPA free water bottles. One example is the Swiss manufacturer Sigg who’s aluminum water bottles are available in many stores and online.

So, when you’re on the move, stay hydrated, stay safe, save money and reduce waste with a new BPA free reusable water bottle.