| PLASTIC TOXINS...A CAN OF WORMS |
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Prior to Choice’s findings, the FSANZ had summoned a report on the migration of packaging materials into food, the outcome of which is due later this year. In response to this recent study, Choice wants the government - as a matter of urgency - to phase out the use of BPA-containing packaging for all baby food and foods designed for toddlers and young children.
ACTIONS ALREADY BEING TAKEN In June this year, the government worked with major food retailers who have agreed from July 1, 2010 to voluntarily phase-out all baby bottles containing BPA from their stores and replace them with BPA free alternatives.
Other action taken earlier this year saw an announcement in January by the Australian Consumer Affairs Minister, Craig Emerson, banning items containing more than one per cent of the phthalate, DEHP, because of international research linking it to reproductive difficulties. The types of toys and equipment covered by the ban include dummies, bowls, plates, cups, cutlery, soft books, infant activity centres and rattles, where they contain more than one per cent DEHP.
HOW TO AVOID PLASTIC TOXINS Choice made several recommendations in their report as to how consumers could minimise their risk, including choosing fresh food whenever possible and using glass or ceramic containers when heating food in the microwave oven.
In relation to plastics in the kitchen for children, other options available to parents right now are:
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