LAMPITT INTRODUCES BILL TO REMOVE TOXIC BABY BOTTLES, OTHER PLASTICS FROM STORE SHELVES

LAMPITT INTRODUCES BILL TO REMOVE TOXIC BABY BOTTLES, OTHER PLASTICS FROM STORE SHELVES 

Measure Would Ban Containers that Contain Bisphenol-A

(TRENTON) – Assemblywoman Pamela R. Lampitt recently introduced legislation to ban the sale of all plastic baby bottles, cans of baby formula, sippy cups and other food containers containing or lined with bisphenol-A, a chemical recently linked to neurological and behavioral problems in infants and babies.

“It is unconscionable that baby bottles and formula packaging containing toxins that can potentially harm the health of newborns are allowed on store shelves,” said Lampitt (D-Camden).  “Every parent wants to do only that which is best and healthiest for their child.  Giving a baby a bottle that can leech dangerous chemicals linked to a litany of developmental problems would not be on anyone’s list.” 

Lampitt said she first crafted bill (A-2112) after watching a recent television report that showed the threat posed by polycarbonate baby bottles, cans of baby formula, sippy cups and plastic containers lined with bisphenol-A (BPA).  BPA-containing plastic often is used in polycarbonate plastic products, including baby bottles.  Canisters used to store liquid and powdered infant formulas typically use a BPA-containing plastic lining to protect the food from the can. 

The measure would ban the sale of all containers that contain BPA since the chemical mimics estrogen and can interfere with healthy growth and body functions.  Bisphenol-A has been linked in recent studies to prostate and breast cancer, uro-genital abnormalities in male babies, early onset of puberty in girls, metabolic disorders including insulin-resistant (Type 2) diabetes and obesity, and neurobehavioral problems such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

“There is a growing cause for concern when it comes to products that contain BPA,” said Lampitt.  “Down the road, this chemical could have serious effects on the mental and physical development of our children.  This is a risk we must reduce, especially since there are other, less-dangerous options on the market.”

According to a recent NJPIRG report, “Baby’s Toxic Bottle,” some plastic baby bottles are made with BPA; these plastics usually are hard and clear and are marked with a “No. 7” on their bottom.  Bottles with BPA can leech during normal use -- usually the chemical leeching worsens when the container is heated or over time as the container is reused.  The report was based on a comparison study of six popular brands of baby bottles purchased in nine states.

According to the federal Centers for Disease Control, 95 percent of Americans carry measurable amounts of BPA in their bloodstream. 
The bill has been referred to the Assembly Environmental and Solid Waste Committee.  

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