Research Group Finds Toxic Chemicals in Baby Products
Thursday October 13, 2005
The U.S. Public Interest Research Group (USPIRG) has released results of a study that found toxic chemicals in many baby products, including toys, sleep products and teethers. "The Right Start: The Need to Eliminate Toxic Chemicals from Baby Products" says that the group tested sleep products for flame retardants called PBDEs and tested 18 other baby products for phthalates, a chemical that keeps plastic flexible. Three of the seven sleep products were found to contain PBDEs, and 15 of the 18 other baby products were found to contain phthalates, including one product that was labeled "phthalate free."
USPIRG, along with 20 other state research groups, released the report to draw attention to the presence of these chemicals in consumer products, and to encourage support of the Kid-Safe Chemicals Act that was introduced earlier this year. Phthalates and PBDEs have been linked to impaired learning, cancer, reproductive defects, premature birth and early onset of puberty. Nine U.S. states have banned the use of some PBDEs in manufacturing, and the European Union recently banned several types of phthalates, with special restrictions on chemicals that can be used in products that are designed to go in a baby's mouth.
Comments
How do you know what contains phthalates? What is it called on the labels? I guess I am going with Burts Bees. This is totally confusing and worrisome.
I was saddened, but not surprised, to hear of these findings. I learned about what is “IN” so many of the products used in our personal care items, both for adults as well as children a few years ago. I did my own research, and found that Arbonne, a Swiss Health & Wellness company founded here in the USA, made products that are all pure, safe, and beneficial. I have re-directed all my money and have been using (and now sharing with friends and family with my own business) about these products ever since! I LOVE Them….but most importantly, I know that my children (3, including a 5 month old baby) have not been exposed to these chemicals!) I am happy to share information about what is IN and what is NOT in our products if you, or anyone you know is interested! Blessings!