BPA Free Bottled Water Brands

By Marci Glover


Bottled waters have grown steadily in popularity. Some people think they are purer than tap water, while others simply like the convenience of grabbing a drink on the go. However, there are some health concerns with the use of plastic for beverage bottles and food containers. One reason for concern is that some plastics contain BPA, a chemical that can leach into food and drinks when plastics are softened by heat. Therefore, many consumers want to find BPA free bottled water brands.

The proper chemical name is bisphenol A, a component of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Polycarbonates are commonly used in food packaging. Epoxy resins are used to line metal cans and bottle tops. The lining prevents the metal from reacting with foods or liquids. However, many health researchers caution against using polycarbonates in products like baby bottles, and studies show that chemical taints may leach into canned foods from the protective resin lining.

There is controversy over the safety of this chemical. Research has shown that it does sometimes leach into food and beverages. However, the FDA (the Food and Drug Administration, the regulatory agency for the United States food and pharmaceutical industry) believes that the low levels found in consumer goods do not pose a significant threat, even for unborn children and infants.

The FDA, with its investigation on-going, recommends that people use plastic containers properly, keeping them from high heat (as in the dishwasher or the microwave). It also suggests limiting the use of foods in metal cans. Choosing highly acidic foods like tomato sauces in glass rather than metal containers is one way to lower exposure. The fact that Europe has banned BPA for many uses has fueled the controversy.

This chemical mimics estrogen in the human body. It may interfere with proper development of the brain and the prostate gland in babies, and may cause behavior disorders. It is considered by some experts to be a carcinogen. Consumers have become increasingly wary, despite FDA assurances of safety. Europe has banned the use of BPA in all products for children under three.

Concerned consumers should look for pacifiers, infant formula bottles, 'sippy cups', and teething rings labeled 'BPA-free'. They may also want to avoid this chemical for their own use by carefully selecting foods and beverages packaged in plastic. Polycarbonate containers will have a '7' recycle code on the bottom.

There are many portable drinking bottles on the market that are not made of plastic. However, those who value the convenience of buying drinks off the shelf may have difficulty in finding information on the chemical composition of bottles. Consumers can check the code number on the bottom of plastic containers. The numbers 2, 4, and 5 designate plastics free of bisphenol A. The number 1 means that the bottle is designed for one use and should not be re-used.

If you can't find this information on the label, you might want to call customer service for particular brands. The companies will be glad to tell you if their water is BPA-free, as well as particulars on other packaging or products.




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