Congress Doing Its Part

Congress has voted to ban 6 chemicals from the market in order to protect consumers from harmful toxins such as phthalates. Three of the chemicals will be permanently removed from the market place and the other three will stay removed until manufacturers can prove them to be safe. In the past, the chemicals had to be proven unsafe in order to be removed, but now it will be in the hands of the manufacturers to determine safety.

The article on this progress points out the dangers associated with the chemicals that are commonly used in plastics and the disastrous effects on consumers, especially infants and young children. Leo Trasande, a pediatrician and environmental health specialist at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York, states: "We're engaged in a giant, uncontrolled experiment on America's children. Based on the evidence we have to date, a stronger approach is needed."

I read information on the dangers of these plastics ten years ago and removed all plastic toys from my home. We don't use plastic ware, plates or cups either due to the problem of the plastic leaching toxic chemicals into the food and beverages. Yes, my children actually learned how to drink out of a glass or stainless steel cup. I found wonderful websites that sell natural toys made from fibers such as wool or cotton and wood. Magic Cabin Dolls has a fantastic selection, as does Rosie Hippos. Honestly, there are so many sites now that cater to natural toys and products that are safe and well-made. For drinking bottles, we use Klean Kanteen, which are stainless steel and fabulous.

Although it has taken well over a decade for Congress to take some action, I am impressed and pleased that the effects of harmful plastics is being made public and the general public is starting to be protected. If you need more helpful suggestions to steer clear of toxins, read this article on "Nine Ways to Avoid Household Toxins".

Here's to your Health!
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