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Plastic Toxicity

Plastics are a hard thing to avoid in the world we live in. Many products we use on a daily basis are made of plastic. They are in our kitchens, our bathrooms, our workplace, and in our children's toys; the list is endless. As a parent, it's good to be aware of what type of plastics you have, or are bringing into your home.

Traditional plastics are made mostly from petroleum. They are not biodegradable and can release toxins into the atmosphere when burned. The newer more sustainable plastics, bio-plastics, are made from renewable resources such as hemp oil, soy bean oil, and corn starch. Until bio-plastic becomes more widely available, it's important to choose the less toxic among the petroleum-based plastics.

When shopping, be sure to check the recycling sign on the plastic to determine what type of plastic it's made from.

Less Toxic Plastics
These plastics may leak chemicals, but no studies suggest they are a detriment to your health.

Toxic plastic
These plastics leach toxic chemicals and have been linked to cancer, disrupting hormones and other health issues. The amount of leaking it takes to cause these health issues is controversial.

The chemical leaches from these plastics because it is a relatively unstable substance. With heat, alkaline conditions and wear, the chemical slowly breaks down and leaches out into its environment. Avoid heating any plastic in your house whether you're heating your baby's bottle or using plastic containers or glassware to heat up food. Harsh dish soap can also contribute to the breakdown on the product.

Not all plastics will have the recycling sign. If you can't find one, contact the manufacturer directly and ask them what type of plastic the product is made from.

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Plastic Toxicity
posted by Eco Baby Products on Wednesday, October 24, 2007
© 2007 EcoBabyProducts.com

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