Most of us have heard of BPA and that it can be dangerous to our health. But what is BPA? How does it work, and is BPA free plastic safe?
BPA (Bisephenol A) is an industrial chemical used to make certain plastics like polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. These plastics and resins are sometimes used to make things like our insulated water bottles, babies bottles, food storage containers and other items like CDs and electronic devises. It is even used to coat the inside of metal products, like food cans found in our local supermarkets.
Some research has indicated that this BPA can seep into our food and beverages, particularly when altered by heat and this can be damaging to our health causing a myriad of health concerns.
Although the health risks are alarming we must keep in mind that research is ongoing and is still being established. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) maintains that studies using standardised toxicity tests have shown BPA to be safe at the current low levels of human exposure.
While we wait for the verdict, we believe that plastic is not that fantastic anyway… not for our health or the environment. So here are some simple steps we can implement to eliminate our exposure to BPA while the jury is out:
- Avoid Heat – microwaving plastics or putting plastic in the dishwasher is not recommended. This allows the plastic to break down over time which in turn allows BPA to seep into foods.
- Fresher is Better! – Cut back on canned goods, since most of these cans are lined with BPA containing resins. Not to mention anything that can live in a can probably has some other nasty chemicals hiding in there to help prolong its shelf life. We say real wholefoods are better.
- BPA FREE – If you are using plastics, look for products that are labelled BPA free.
- Use Alternatives – porcelain, glass, stainless steel. You can find so many products now not made of plastic. We offer a selection of alternative material products right here at Raw Blend.
Triple Insulated Stainless Steel Bottles
The Vitamix TNC has a new container that is made of an all-new material developed recently by Eastman called Tritan™. So for those who are looking for a BPA free blender jug, look no further than Vitamix blenders.
Tritan is a copolyester, which is as strong and durable as polycarbonate, yet was formulated without BPA.
Being aware of a growing controversy regarding the BPA in polycarbonate, Vitamix felt that the new Tritan™ was a wise choice for its toughness, increased sound damping and resistance to cracking in addition to the fact that it contained no BPA.