Saturday, February 6, 2010

Bisphenol A

BPA is a chemical used to make plastics and resins. Some cans used in food production have a plastic lining to prevent corrosion, particularly foods of high acidity such as tomatoes. Consumer Reports and Prevention published articles concerning the safety of several food items tested for BPA. The FDA agrees there is concern about the potential effects of BPA on the brain, behavior, and prostate glands of fetuses, infants, and children. How harmful is BPA and just how much is considered a "safe" level? It seems the controversy lies in the research. Studies on lab animals have been at very high levels of BPA, where humans are generally exposed to one-millionth of the amount. The FDA is currently funding a $30 million research program for toxicity studies.
In the meantime, there are the options of fresh and frozen tomato products, and canned vegetables processed in glass containers. Home canning is also an option. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, A and lycopene, which is more easily absorbed in the body after they have been processed. There's no need to exclude canned tomato products from a healthful diet.
~ ADA Times

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