Bisphenol A OK

Contrary to the conclusions of more than 100 studies by scientists and university laboratories, the FDA has concluded that it is safe to be exposed to the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) that is present in many food containers and children's toys. So was it a waste of time to green your home by tossing toxic-leaching plastics?

Opponents of the FDA expressed concern about the findings and said they believed they had the chemical industry in mind rather than consumers. According to the Washington Post some studies have found that BPA can lead to prostate and breast cancers, diabetes, and behavioral disorders such as hyperactivity.

Some consumers and experts are cryting foul—they think the FDA is caving to industry pressure to quell public fear. Others might think that this has all been publicity to drum up sales of new product. Sure, your water bottle might be OK, but here! Buy a new, BPA-free bottle and be absolutely sure!

Just because the chemical has been deemed safe doesn't mean you have to buy it. Companies such as Nalgene make BPA-free plastic bottles, and Wal-Mart and Toys R Us have pledged to eliminate children's products with BPA from their stores by January of 2009. If you are still concerned, you have choices as a consumer.

Tell us what you think. Is FDA approval enough to bring plastic back into your home? Or are you still better off without it?