Plastics have become deeply ingrained in our lives, seamlessly woven into various aspects of our daily routines. We've trusted them to simplify tasks, whether it's storing food, creating children's toys, or even manufacturing baby bottles. Yet, despite their convenience, we've been blindsided by their chemical repercussions. The harmful miniscule particles of plastics called microplastics are finding their way into our bodies through unexpected routes, posing risks we hadn't previously considered, especially for our babies.

BPA and BPS

Often viewed as a replacement for BPA (bisphenol A), BPS (bisphenol S) is in fact a toxic variation of BPA, and both are recognized as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body's hormonal system. These chemicals have been linked to various health concerns, including reproductive issues and developmental problems. According to Toxic-Free Future, BPA (bisphenol A) and other bisphenols exhibit estrogenic properties, impacting reproduction, mating behavior, and brain development. These compounds also influence reproductive success and may affect the prostate, with potential links to hyperactivity.

Breastmilk

In a pilot study conducted in 2022 led by Dr. I. van der Veen, it was found that 75% of the beef and pork samples tested contained microplastics, likely ingested through animal feed pellets, oxygen intake, or water consumption. These findings reasonably suggest that consuming these animal meats may heighten the risk of microplastic contamination in humans and could potentially transmit this contamination through breastmilk. As vital sources of nutrition for babies, we can play a role in breaking the chain reaction by reducing our own risk of microplastic ingestion and opting for better alternatives to plastic, such as glass bottles, when complementing breastfeeding.  

“Our reliance on plastics could be the biggest gamble in the story of human health, in history. We are all ingesting and inhaling microplastics. They are everywhere. Are we just hoping they are safe, or is even the remotest possibility they might be toxic so terrifying, that we can’t contemplate it?”

- Kathleen Rogers, President, EARTHDAY.ORG

What More Can You Do?

• Minimize plastic consumption and waste by reducing the use of single-use plastics like bags and utensils.

• When purchasing baby products, look for items that are free of microplastics or packaged in non-plastic materials.

• Avoid heating and microwaving food in plastic containers, and whenever possible, opt for glass or stainless steel containers for food storage.

• If you have to use plastic, avoid placing it in the dishwasher as this degrades the plastic quicker.

• Choose glass or another sustainable, healthier alternative for your baby's bottles and other feeding options.

With the rate of plastic production projected to double by 2040, EARTHDAY.ORG is urging global participation in their Global Plastics Treaty. This initiative aims to call forth government action and worldwide efforts to reduce fossil fuel-based plastic production, countering the alarming rise in plastic production. Explore EARTHDAY.ORG's insightful Babies vs. Plastics Report for more details.  

In a world where microplastics are multiplying faster than they can be eliminated, it’s important to be informed on how to minimize exposure for the babies who carry the future in their tiny hands.

Mason Bottle Eliminates Plastic Contact

Breastmilk or formula served in our glass bottles will only come into contact with two materials: glass and silicone. The silicone nipple can be affixed to the glass jar using a standard metal mason jar ring.

Because metal mason jar rings can rust, we  developed a dishwasher-safe plastic ring, which never touches the milk contained on the inside.