Cheesy ravioli, Toy Story and BPA

Canned foods like pastas and soups can be attractive options for mothers on the go, especially when adorned with pictures of Woody from Toy Story and the latest Disney princess that have kids reaching for their forks. But these same last-minute meals could actually be harming your children’s health.

Last week, the Breast Cancer Fund released a report that tested six different kid-friendly canned products, with every food sample registering levels of the toxic chemical bisphenol A (BPA). Most metal food cans have epoxy-resin linings that contain BPA, which has been linked to disruptions of the hormonal system, heart disease, diabetes and other severe health problems.

Oregon Environmental Council worked with KGW-TV on a story about the report, interviewing our Environmental Health Program Director Renee about the potential dangers of BPA as well as a local Portland mother and a representative from the food industry. Check out the story below (begins at 0:38), and be sure to visit OEC’s BPA page to learn more about BPA and healthier alternatives for kids and parents alike.