Chemicals in Baby Products

As children’s minds and bodies go through the delicate processes of growing and developing, they are particularly vulnerable to chemicals that could affect proper development. And because children have a natural tendency to suck on objects as a way of exploring the world around them, harmful chemicals can leach out of these products and enter their bodies.

Phthalates in plastic toys and baby products

Phthalates are chemicals added to PVC plastic to make it soft and flexible. Among many other things, they are used in soft plastic toys and other baby products, such as some teethers, bath books, and “rubber” ducks. Phthalates are not chemically bonded to PVC plastic, which easily allows them to leach from the plastic.

Scientific studies show that:

· Phthalates can interfere with the natural functioning of the hormone system.
· Phthalates can cause reproductive problems and genital malformations.
· Exposure is linked to premature birth and early onset of puberty.
· Phthalates may lower sperm count and are associated with the risk factors for testicular cancer.
· Phthalates are linked to allergies and asthma.
· Exposure may be linked to liver and kidney damage.
· Exposure can also interfere with the normal development of a fetus.

The European Union and at least 14 countries already have banned or are phasing out phthalates from children’s products to protect children’s health. Although several of the leading manufacturers of toys and baby products in the U.S. have restricted the use of phthalates over the last few years, there are still many products on the market that do contain phthalates.

With the passage of Environment California-sponsored AB 1108 (Ma-San Francisco), California became the first state in the country to ban the use of phthalates in children's products.

Bisphenol A in plastic feeding bottles

Bisphenol A is an industrial chemical that is used to make polycarbonate plastic. Among other products, it can be found in clear plastic baby bottles, reusable water bottles, and microwave ovenware. This has caused concern since bisphenol A can leach out of the products and may affect human health.

Scientific studies show that at very low levels:

· Bisphenol A can disrupt the normal functioning of our hormones.
· Bisphenol A can cause behavioral effects, including hyperactivity and increased aggression.
· Bisphenol A can lead to impaired learning.
· Bisphenol A is associated with obesity and diabetes.
· Bisphenol A exposure can affect the timing of the onset of puberty.
· Bisphenol A stimulates mammary gland development, which is a risk factor for breast cancer.
· Bisphenol A can significantly increase prostate size.
· Bisphenol A can alter the functioning of the immune system.
· Bisphenol A is associated with miscarriages in women.
· Exposure can also interfere with the normal development of a fetus.

Studies also show that bisphenol A can leach out of plastic baby bottles. The leaching appears to accelerate if the bottle is old or scratched.

Some major bottle producers, such as Medela, make plastic bottles without bisphenol A. However, most major U.S. baby bottle manufacturers use bisphenol A in their production, and there is no law prohibiting its use.

Environment California sponsored legislation authored by Assemblywoman Fiona Ma (San Francisco), AB 1108, which prohibits the use of phthalates in products intended for use by children under three years of age.