Are BPA-free plastics really safe? - Dallas News | myFOXdfw.com

Are BPA-free plastics really safe?

Posted: Updated:
ATLANTA -

Many parents buy BPA-free plastic because they think it's safer for their children. A new scientific study says that might not be risk-free after all.

BPA is a chemical used in plastics to make it hard.  It was banned by the FDA for use in things like baby bottles and sippy cups. Tests showed there might be cancer risks for fetuses and children when the chemical leaches into their systems.

Here's the problem:  the replacement for BPA is called BPS, and a new independent studies show BPS might be actually worse.  This news doesn't surprise a research scientist at Emory University's School of Public Health.  

Professor Dana Barr says the problem is that the law allows for untested chemicals to be used in everyday products.  According to Barr, chemicals don't have to be proven safe. Instead, it's  what she calls "safe until proven toxic."

Experts in the field will tell you that this is very confusing for the average consumer, and the FDA complicates it.  In this case, the government said in 2008 BPA was safe, then in 2010 expressed concerns about health risks, and ultimately banned it. For more information on the issue, click here!

  • I-Team Story Archive

  • FOX 5 I-Team investigates

    Thursday, May 23 2013 12:56 AM EDT2013-05-23 04:56:30 GMT
    The FOX 5 I-Team has learned that Douglas County District Attorney David McDade is personally asking the GBI to investigate how money is spent in his office.
    The FOX 5 I-Team has learned that Douglas County District Attorney David McDade is personally asking the GBI to investigate how money is spent in his office.
  • FOX 5 I-Team investigates

    Wednesday, May 22 2013 10:42 PM EDT2013-05-23 02:42:27 GMT
    What do major hotel chains, the IRS, and the business partner of a top rapper have in common? Court records show the National Conference of Black Mayors owes all of them money. Big money.
    What do major hotel chains, the IRS, and the business partner of a top rapper have in common? Court records show the National Conference of Black Mayors owes all of them money. Big money.
  • Wednesday, May 22 2013 9:56 AM EDT2013-05-22 13:56:24 GMT
    Americans are known for their pearly whites, but we pay for it—and it isn't cheap. 
    Americans are known for their pearly whites, but we pay for it—and it isn't cheap.  If you have more than one child who needs braces, you have quite an expense on your hands—but FOX 5 I-Team reporter Dana Fowle found some ways to make it a little more manageable.

Contact the FOX 5 I-Team

* denotes required fields

Log InNot you? Log out
We're sorry, but only one entry is allowed per person.
Thank you for your continued interest.

Thanks for contacting FOX 5.  To reach our newsroom by phone, please call (404) 898-0100.

Powered by WorldNow

KDFW FOX 4
400 N. Griffin Street
Dallas, Texas 75202

Main Station Directory:
(214) 720-4444
News Fax:
(214) 720-3263 or (214) 720-3333

Didn't find what you were looking for?
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 Fox Television Stations, Inc. and Worldnow. All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Ad Choices