Canada bans BPA to Protect Families

On June 26, 2009, the Government of Canada announced that it is moving forward with proposed regulations to prohibit the advertisement, sale and importation of polycarbonate plastic baby bottles that contain bisphenol A, otherwise known as BPA, to reduce newborn and infant exposure to this substance.

BPA is used in the production of polycarbonate, a clear hard plastic used to make many products, including baby bottles. When in contact with hot or boiling liquid, bisphenol A can migrate from the plastic into the liquid and easily be ingested.

“Our Government is acting to protect its most vulnerable citizens-newborns and infants,” said Minister Aglukkaq.

“Canada is the first country to move ahead with regulations to prohibit polycarbonate baby bottles that contain bisphenol A. We want parents to feel confident that they can safely bottle-feed their newborns and infants.” Minister Aglukkaq

The Government has concluded that exposure levels for newborns and infants up to 18 months of age are below those that could cause health effects. However, due to the uncertainty raised in some studies relating to the potential effects of low levels of BPA, the Government wants to further limit exposure.

Source: Government of Canada