How You Can Minimize Your BPA Exposure

1. Avoid polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is a plastic that is usually hard and clear and contains BPA.  It is found in many plastic food containers, although it is no longer used to make baby bottles and sippy cups.

2. Watch the heat. Do not put very hot liquid into containers with BPA.  The heat of the liquid can accelerate the leaching of the BPA into the food.

3. Be gentle.  Do not run polycarbonate containers in the dishwasher or place them in the microwave.  The plastic can break down with repeated exposure to high temperatures.

4. Minimize canned foods and drinks.  Choose fresh or frozen foods as often as possible to minimize your exposure to BPA in cans.  Also, look for cans that are BPA-free.  Many food producers (Amy’s, Del Monte, Trader Joe’s. Whole Foods) have started using BPA-free cans, check the company’s web site for more information.