Alternatives to BPA plastic

Bisphenol-A is everywhere. It’s in polycarbonate, which is used to make many baby bottles and water bottles. It’s also in the lining of canned goods, including baby formula, and it even appears in dental sealants.

BPA plastic is rigid and clear and is identified by the No. 7 in the recycling triangle on the bottom of products.

What are considered “safer” plastics are labeled with the numbers 1, 2, 4 and 5.

Some mainstream retailers, including Babies “R” Us, now carry baby bottles labeled “BPA free.”

Several online stores offer an array of BPA-free children’s products, including teething toys and sippy cups. Those include www.newbornfree.com and www.greentogrow.com

Since chemicals other than BPA also are being studied for their potential harm to humans, though, many people are opting to replace more than just the No. 7s from their lives.

Companies such as Sigg ( www.mysigg.com), Klean Kanteen (www.kleankan teen.com) and Thermos ( www.thermos.com) sell aluminum water bottles in adult and child sizes.

Pyrex ( www.pyrexware.com) isn’t a new company, but its glass food-storage containers are as popular as ever.

Another piece of advice being passed about: Don’t reuse plastic water bottles, and don’t microwave food in plastic containers. Use a microwave-safe glass or ceramic dish instead.