Family Life

11.03.09 | FL News Team

A potentially dangerous chemical may be lurking in the packaging of many common foods. That's according to a new study by the nonprofit consumer advocacy group Consumers Union. The study focuses on a controversial chemical additive used to harden plastic, BPA. Consumers Union tested BPA levels in 19 name-brand foods sold in metal, paper or plastic packages. It found none in products like paper canisters of Similac powdered Advance Infant Formula or Nestle Juicy Juice boxes. However, it found enough BPA in some foods, like cans of Del Monte Fresh Cut Blue Lake Green Beans, to raise a red flag. The Consumers Union report claims children who eat multiple servings of such foods could ingest enough BPA to see negative health effects. The chemical was even found in some foods that were labeled "BPA-free."

Last year, the Food and Drug Administration released a draft report that said BPA was safe to use in food containers. However, critics point to studies that suggest BPA may lead to an array of health problems, including cancer, diabetes and reproductive abnormalities. Consumers Union sent a letter to the FDA claiming the new report helps make the case for banning BPA in products that come in contact with food and beverages.