We've learned about why it's important to protect your growing children from endocrine-disrupting chemicals.  Now let's discuss how to get the job done.  It may seem overwhelming, but you can do it with a little practice - and the benefits are worth the effort!

Decreasing BPA Exposure is Paramount

• The following types of plastic are typically made without BPA: PET or PETE (#1), HDPE (#2), LDPE (#4) and PP (#5). Plastics from recycling category #1 should not be reused even though they're BPA-free, because they can leach other chemicals (like antimony) when exposed to heat and detergents
• BPA has been discovered in some color-tinted PP (#5) plastic food containers and teethers, so be sure these products are either labeled as BPA-free or have been confirm with the manufacturer to be BPA-free
• Avoid aluminum bottles, canned foods and pre-made baby formula; they require a protective liner that is typically uses a BPA-based epoxy. Use stainless steel bottles, fresh or frozen foods and powdered baby formula instead. Eden Foods cans are one of the only BPA-free options in canned food (except for their tomato-based products) 
• Avoid polycarbonate baby bottles and containers (#7 or PC recycling codes). Also be aware that not all #7 plastics contain BPA; many newer plastics like PES and Tritan copolyester are thrown in to the #7 Other category, but are BPA-free
• Keep in mind that manufacturers are not required to label their products with materials used or recycling codes. If you find an unmarked product, be sure to contact the manufacturer to confirm. There are several trusted companies and blogs who have done the work for you, so checking with them first will save you some time and frustration (SafeMama, ZRecs and The Soft Landing)
• Choosing food containers made from glass, silicone, stainless steel and wood ensures you won't have to be concerned about BPA at all
• Before you buy, check our Safer Food Storage Guide for and extensive list of safe alternatives

Avoid Phthalates, Especially in Pregnant Mothers and Children

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