Minnesota Bans BPA in Children’s Products

A new Minnesota law is banning the presence of Bispenol A (BPA) in food and beverage containers targeted for children under three-years-old, such as plastic baby bottles. The North Star State is the first to ban BPA, which has come under fire for possible health concerns.

Minnesota's BPA ban will on affect products targeted for children under 3-years-old. Photo: Breastpumpsdirect.com

The law will officially take effect on January 1, 2010, when manufacturers will be required to stop selling these products to Minnesota consumers. The ban will also apply to retailers in the state by 2011.

BPA is typically used as an additive in plastics manufacturing, as it makes the plastic more shatter-proof. In addition to plastic bottles, BPA is used in dental fillings, household electronics and as a lining for many food cans.

While the FDA has declared BPA safe for humans, other research has suggested that it mimics the effects of estrogen to pose health risks for children. Retailers Wal-Mart and Toys “R” Us, as well as water bottle manufacturer Nalgene have already committed to phasing out BPA use in consumer products.

Another environmental issue surrounding BPA is that it’s commonly used in the more difficult-to-recycle plastics, such as polyvinyl chloride (#3) and  #7 “Other.” While products that utilize BPA are recyclable, it can be a more expensive process with less of a market for the resulting resin.

Currently, four other states are considering a similar ban, and Congress is reviewing national legislation on the topic.