Biopolymers are a family of polymers created by organic matter. These polymers are replacing the need for use of other more dangerous polymers in packaging and materials. Biopolymers are thought to be safer for human exposure as well as much safer for the environment.
(BPA) is a chemical used in polycarbonate plastic resins, epoxy resins, and other products. It is commonly used in baby bottles, food and drink containers, and the plastic lining of tin cans. In animal studies BPA has been known to cause many health problems ranging from increased risk of cancer, to diabetes, reproductive disorders, and even obesity. BPA leeches out of plastic and into the contents of containers over time and or if exposed to heat or detergents. Plastic containers with a code (number surrounded by arrows on bottom of container) of either 3 or 7 may contain BPA.
1,4-dioxane is a know irritant and suspected carcinogen that commonly appears in child care products as well as cosmetics. The chemical is a bi-product of chemical processing and could be removed from products but currently the US government does not require that process. Studies have found amounts of this toxic chemical in many common baby care products.
Although never intentionally added to care products, the cancer causing chemical formaldehyde is a bi-product of many common preservatives that are often used in baby care products. A March 2009 study that tested 28 common commercial baby care products for formaldehyde detected amounts of the chemical in 23 of the products.
Nickel as a metal and it's relative soluble compounds should be kept in check when regarding human contact. Nickel is suspected to be carcinogenic and many people have an innate allergy to the metal. In 2008 the American Contact Dermatitis Society voted Nickel the "Allergen of the Year". The most common exposures to nickel are from jewelry, particularly earrings, and from exposure to cigarette smoke.
Phthalates are a group of chemicals that up until recently were extremely common in children's toys. In 2008 congress passed a bill banning the use of several of the chemicals in this family. The chemical is known to cause many health problems including reproductive disorders and cancer. Plastics that may potentially contain phthalates are under the resin code 3.
PBDEs are a group of chemicals that have a history of being widely used as flame retardants. Some US states have banned the use of PBDEs. Studies with animals have shown the chemicals to cause several health defects from reproductive disorders, brain/behavioral problems, and cancer at high levels.
PVC which makes up the "3" group of plastics, has been sited for several different health concerns. One of the biggest issues related to baby products is the use of phthalates as softeners and has been know to off-gas dangerous chemicals into the air. On a wider scope PVC production and destruction are both suspected of causing major environmental issues.
Polyethersulfone is a BPA-free plastic that is sometimes used in making baby products. The plastic alternate is known for it's ability to remain stable over a wide range of temperatures. It is free of phtalates and BPA and also is approved by the FDA to be safe for contact with food.
PP is a very popular alternative to to BPA containing baby bottles and containers. Polypropylene is currently considered to be among the safest choices for baby bottle and food container materials.
Nitrosamines are a chemical produced from nitrates and secondary amines. They have been found in many consumables as well as latex products in the US. Nitrosamines have been linked to cancer. This chemical is found in many rubber nipples as well as cheese, beer, and meat.
Choosing organic baby bedding means making a great investment in your child’s healthy future. It also means supporting a healthier earth for them to grow up on, because the products produced this way do not destroy ecosystems and upset the balance of nature the way production using toxic chemicals can. Soft and natural is the [...]
Choosing organic baby bedding means making a great investment in your child’s healthy future. It also means supporting a healthier earth for them to grow up on, because the products produced this way do not destroy ecosystems and upset the balance of nature the way production using toxic chemicals can. Soft and natural is the [...]
A new baby is often an inspiring experience for the parents. There are many things to be learned, such as any health concerns, what will make the infant comfortable, and what things are safe for them to be in contact with. Many parents have found a great help with organic baby bedding. These items can [...]
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