Glossary
Bisphenol A (BPA)
Bisphenol A (BPA) a hormone-disrupting chemical, is used extensively in the production of plastics, particularly polycarbonates (PC). It’s used to make a range of plastic food containers, including baby bottles. In 2008, the US National Toxicology Program (NTP) raised concerns that exposure to BPA during pregnancy and childhood could impact the developing breast and prostate, hasten puberty, and affect behavior in children. Read more on Bisphenol A.
PVC
Plastic bottles can also be made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), also known as vinyl, and the most toxic plastic from both an environmental and health standpoint. PVC plastic sometimes contain lead, which can lead to IQ deficiencies, learning disabilities, impaired hearing, and reduced attention spans, as well as other behavior problems. Soft PVC, which had been used in the past in nipples, pacifiers and teethers, contains phthalates, hormone-disrupting chemicals used as plastic softeners.
Parabens
Parabens are preservatives that can act like oestrogens and are potential hormone disrupters. They may also be linked to breast cancer.
Petrolatum (Petroleum Jelly)
Impurities in petrolatum, formed in the manufacturing process, have been implicated as a cause of breast cancer. Petrolatum is also used in cosmetics and in many baby lotions. The most well-known brand is Vaseline (from Unilever).
Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemicals used as solvents for fragrances that are also potential hormone distrupters, especially to the development of baby boys while still in the womb. They have also been implicated as a contributor to asthma.
Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulphate
Sodium lauryl/laureth sulphate (SLS/SLES) are an industrial-strength detergent used in hygiene products as a cleanser and foaming agent. They are derived from a petrochemical source, although some are from natural sources such as coconut. They can be absorbed by the skin and if so can cause damage to systemic tissue in the brain, heart and liver and, even if it does not enter the eyes directly, can cause them damage. The SLS/SLES ingredients derived from natural sources are considered to comprise larger molecules and therefore are not as readily absorbed through the skin.
