Nalgene Water Bottles May Be Hazardous to Your Health
Here's some bummer news for the outdoorsy set: Recent studies have shown that polycarbonate plastics, including the kind used in popular Nalgene water bottles, may leach one of their constituent chemicals into water. The chemical in question, bisphenol-A, has been shown to cause chromosomal disorders and endocrine disruption and to have adverse effects on prostate development and tumors, breast tissue development, and sperm count -- in rodents. Nalgene says that no health problems have been demonstrated in human beings. Still, John P. Myers, environmental health expert and coauthor of a book on endocrine disruptors, says, "I personally recommend avoiding polycarbonate plastics -- don't let them come into contact with your food or water. I think the science is strong enough to justify precautionary measures today." What's next -- carcinogenic Therm-a-Rests? Is nothing sacred?
source: The Daily Barometer, Brenna Doheny, 18 Feb 2004
source: Sierra Magazine, Frances Cerra Whittelsey, Nov/Dec 2003
read Nalgene’s response: Nalgene Outdoors,
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