GotoBabyGifts

When a child puts a toy in its mouth, think not only of the choking hazard but also the chemicals it may contain. While parents may wish that all baby products out there are chemical free, a report from the Environmental Health Strategy Center released on December 13 indicates that 650 brand-name products contain hormone-disrupting chemicals, including BPA and NPEs. The survey encompasses all types of products, but baby toys listed include PLAYMOBIL figurines and Chicco baby rattles.

Toy manufacturers don’t list whether and which chemicals are contained in their products. However, because BPA harms brain and behavioral development by mimicking estrogen, 18 states have put 70 laws in place to ban chemicals in products – such as BPA in baby bottles. Although states are taking on this responsibility now, a national law regarding this issues, the Safe Chemicals Act, is in the works.

If it becomes a law, the Safe Chemicals Act would replace the 35-year-old Toxic Substances Control Act, which has never been updated. Once in place, chemical manufacturers would be required to disclose health information and safety about compounds and to restrict the most harmful substances.

Although states are increasing awareness, manufacturers are addressing chemical concerns themselves. Johnson & Johnson, in response to its Baby Shampoo, is removing chemical traces from its products. In May 2009, Johnson & Johnson’s baby shampoo was found to have two potentially cancer-causing chemicals, and two dozen products were recalled over two years. Although the brand is still improving its products in the United States and abroad, it has removed phthalates from its baby products.

Finding eco-friendly baby products is difficult, and parents looking to create a chemical-free space for their child end up spending more. If the Safe Chemicals Act becomes law, however, parents may have an easier time finding BPA-free and other chemical-free baby products.