Whether you choose to jump on the plastic-free-lifestyle bandwagon or not, you’re probably coming into contact with BPA and other toxic chemicals on a daily basis in places that might surprise you.
Wondering just what BPA is exactly? It stands for “bisphenol A” which is a chemical commonly used in plastic and other products. It has been reported to be an endocrine disruptor and possibly also raise blood pressure. It can cause such problems as infertility, low sperm count, early puberty, asthma and even breast cancer.
BPA has been shown to transfer to food and drinks that are stored in products that contain this chemical. While you may already be avoiding plastic food containers and plastic water bottles, there are many more products that contain BPA.
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Canned Goods
BPA is often used in the lining of canned food. It may be present in very high amounts due to the high heat involved in the sterilization process. The best idea is to skip canned food altogether and choose fresh or frozen food instead.
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Receipts
Any receipt printed on thermal paper may be lined with BPA. If a receipt contains BPA and it’s recycled with other paper products, it can contaminate those paper products as well. The safest choice is to skip the receipt.
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Coffee Pots
BPA can be found in many coffee pots, and this is of particular concern because of the high heat involved since heat can make the problem of BPA leaching into food and drinks even worse.
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Soda Cans
Many soda cans have BPA in the lining. This is just one more reason to stop drinking soda.
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Paper Cups
We don’t often think of paper as a source of BPA. Many plastic cups are lined with BPA, but many paper cups are too. It’s always a better option to drink out of a reusable mug.
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CDs and DVDs
Although a small source of BPA, this is a good reason to ditch the CD or DVD library for digital versions.
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Dental Sealants
If your dentist recommends sealants, be sure to ask for BPA-free ones.
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Toothbrushes
Many toothbrushes are plastic. Be sure to choose one that’s BPA-free.
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Toothpaste Tubes
Toothpaste often comes in a plastic tube, and these tubes may contain BPA as well which can leach into the toothpaste inside.
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Baby Formula
Powdered baby formula often comes in cans that may contain BPA in the lining. If breastfeeding isn’t an option, look for baby formula that’s not packaged in a can.
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Plastic wrap
It’s always a better idea to use parchment paper or a reusable container with a lid that doesn’t contain BPA, like a glass or metal container. We love mason jars.
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Egg Cartons
Skip eggs packaged in polystyrene containers and buy the ones in cardboard cartons instead.
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Carryout Containers at Restaurants
The plastic or polystyrene containers many restaurants use for you to bring home your leftovers may contain BPA. It’s a good idea to bring your own reusable glass or metal container if you think you’re going to want to bring home leftovers.
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Plastic Toys
We know babies and young children put everything in their mouths including their toys. The plastic used to make many kids’ toys may contain BPA, so it’s better to buy toys made out of wood, cloth and other non-plastic materials.
While this is not an exhaustive list, we hope it helps you see the variety of products that have hidden toxins inside. Which item on this list did you find the most surprising?