Bpa Free Sippy Cups
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Understanding BPA in sippy cups
There has been a lot of scrutiny over the use of BPA in products over the last few years, and the public is pushing companies to rid their product lines of the chemical used in the manufacturing of certain plastics. Because of questionable side effects and potential harm, the industry is demanding a change to BPA-free sippy cups. So what exactly is BPA and why avoid it?
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic estrogen compound used to harden polycarbonate plastics, like those used in water bottles as well as the cups and bottles used by infants and toddlers. It’s also used in the epoxy resins used in various can liners (soda cans). According to a study by the CDC, BPA was found in 93% of test subjects, where even trace amounts of BPA have been shown to cause problems in the endocrine system. This system influences almost every cell and function in our bodies. The endocrine system regulates tissue function, growth hormone, metabolism, reproductive organs and more.
Disruption of this necessary system sets off a snowball effect that can create a wide variety of issues ranging from chromosome abnormalities to cardiovascular damage, diabetes, obesity and even cancer. Because children are constantly in a stage of growth, they are extremely susceptible to changes in the systems of their body. While scientists are still testing BPA and its long-term effects, it’s believed that exposure to BPA in children can eventually lead to problems and alterations in the way the brain and reproductive systems typically grow. Leading doctors and scientists all agree that until conclusive evidence is gathered as to the effects of BPA on human growth, the chemical should no longer be used in product development. Hence, the pushes for BPA free sippy cups and bottles.
When the health community brought the issue to light some years ago, it was quite difficult to find products that were actually free of the chemical. It was not included on labeling, and retail staff were not educated enough to inform customers which cups to avoid. Many of the companies that now develop these BPA free sippy cups were struggling to retool their systems and manufacture a product that would put families at ease and keep children safe.
It’s no longer an accepted practice to manufacture products with BPA. Every major supplier of baby bottles and other containers now touts their products as BPA-free. Items are clearly labeled “BPA-free sippy cups”. A quick review of the Nuby website will show a complete product line, over a dozen different cup styles, all BPA free.
While the chemical has been in products for years, there’s no way for the public to have themselves or their children tested for high levels of BPA that may have come during the pre BPA-free sippy cups era. Testing an individual’s body fluids for BPA is a specialized test, and there are only a few labs in the country that have the specialized equipment ,and capacity, to find the low amounts of BPA in humans. It’s an expensive procedure that insurance companies will not touch, and most importantly the information collected from a single individual doesn’t provide enough information or proof of health issues present in the body, or soon to come, because of the lack of clinical data.
Parents need not fear at this point however. Products are now being marketed without the chemical and are much safer for children. While fear is unfounded, those with control of such issues are pushing for the chemical to be removed from all products, not just baby bottles and sippy cups. When you’re shopping for baby products, always remember to check for BPA free sippy cups printed on the packaging to ensure your local retailer carries updated products, and you’re making the healthiest choice for your family.
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