Avoid polycarbonate and PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plastics, both of which contain BPA. Alternatives include polyethylene plastic (also labeled PETE) and containers marked with recycling code 1, 2 (HDPE) and 4 (LDPE). Polypropylene (recycling code 5, or PP) is also safe.
If you use hard polycarbonate plastics (Nalgene bottles, baby bottles, sippy cups), do not heat or use them for warm or hot liquids.
Do not wash polycarbonate plastic containers in the dishwasher with harsh detergents.
For phthalates
A group of compounds called phthalates has raised concerns similar to those involving BPA.
Look for phthalate-free toys or those approved by the European Union (EU).
Plastic wraps generally should not be heated or placed in a microwave oven. Those that are labeled microwave-safe should be placed loosely over containers. Make sure they do not touch the food.
Avoid synthetic fragrance in personal-care products. While the Food and Drug Administration requires the listing of ingredients on cosmetics sold in retail stores, it does not require the listing of individual fragrance ingredients.
Check nail polish labels. The FDA requires phthalates be listed unless they are a fragrance ingredient. (Some nail polishes contain them to reduce cracking.)
SOURCES: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences; Institute for Agricultural and Trade Policy; National Geographic Green Guide
Links to additional articles, resources, the recent federal report that raised safety concerns, and Rebecca Roberts' essay:
Contact staff writer Sandy Bauers at 215-854-5147 or sbauers@phillynews.com.
