Despite Recalls, Toxic Toys Remain on Store Shelves
Recently, millions of toys worldwide have been recalled by Mattel and other companies after high levels of lead were found in them. But there are many more dangerous chemicals in the toys that currently remain on store shelves in CT and through out the country.
Examples of Common Chemicals in Baby Products
As children’s minds and bodies go through the delicate processes of growing and developing, they are particularly vulnerable to chemicals that could affect proper development. And because children have a natural tendency to suck on objects as a way of exploring the world around them, harmful chemicals can leach out of these products and enter their bodies.
Phthalates in plastic toys and baby products
Phthalates (pronounced 'thal-"At) are chemicals added to PVC plastic to make it soft and flexible. Among many other things, they are used in soft plastic toys and other baby products, such as some teethers, bath books, and “rubber†ducks. Phthalates are not chemically bonded to PVC plastic, which
easily allows them to leach from the plastic into our bodies and to the environment.
Scientific studies show that:
- Phthalates can interfere with the natural functioning of the hormone system.
- Phthalates can cause reproductive and genital defects.
- Exposure is linked to premature birth and early onset of puberty.
- Phthalates may lower sperm count and are associated with the risk factors for testicular cancer.
- Phthalates are linked to allergies and asthma.
- Exposure may be linked to liver and kidney damage.
- Exposure can also interfere with the normal development of a fetus.
The European Union and at least 14 countries already have banned or are phasing out phthalates from children’s products to protect children’s health. Although several of the leading manufacturers of toys and baby products in the U.S. have restricted the use of phthalates over the last few years, there are still many products on the market that do contain phthalates because there is no law requiring the chemicals’ phase-out. Also we have learned that even low levels of phthalates can cause serious health effects.
Bisphenol-A in plastic feeding bottles
Bisphenol-A is an industrial chemical that is used to make polycarbonate plastic. Among other products, it can be found in clear plastic baby bottles, reusable water bottles, and microwave ovenware. This has caused concern since bisphenol-A can leach out of the products and may affect human health.
Scientific studies show that at very low levels:
- Bisphenol-A can disrupt the normal functioning of our hormones.
- Bisphenol-A can cause behavioral effects, including hyperactivity and increased aggression.
- Bisphenol-A can lead to impaired learning.
- Bisphenol-A is associated with obesity and diabetes.
- Bisphenol-A exposure can affect the timing of the onset of puberty.
- Bisphenol-A stimulates mammary gland development, which is a risk factor for breast cancer.
- Bisphenol-A can significantly increase prostate size.
- Bisphenol-A can alter the functioning of the immune system.
- Bisphenol-A is associated with miscarriages in women.
- Exposure can also interfere with the normal development of a fetus.
Studies also show that bisphenol-A can leach out of plastic baby bottles. The leaching appears to accelerate if the bottle is old or scratched.
Some major bottle producers, such as Medela, make plastic bottles without bisphenol-A. However, most major U.S. baby bottle manufacturers use bisphenol-A in their production, and there is no law prohibiting its use.
With Safer Alternatives Availible, Why Are Toy Companies Unnecessarily Exposing Our Children to Toxic Chemicals?
Because current law allows them to.
CCAG Building Towards Toxic Toy Bill
CCAG is building support to pass a comprehensive Toxic Toy Bill in the upcoming legislative session starting in Febuary. The bill, starting with toys, would act as a stepping stone for comprehensive toxic chemical reform that would build towards the use of safer chemical alternatives.
CCAG is committed to long term Toxic Chemical Reform which includes:
- Improved reporting requirements at the state level starting with Chemicals in Toys (We will fight to get additional funding provided for the CT DEP so that they can better enforce CT’s current reporting laws)
- Establishing an Institute that moniters and inspects chemicals in children’s toys coming into the state and assists business with the implementation of safer alternatives
- Banning toxic chemicals such as phthalates from being used in toys and requiring the use of known safer alternatives
