Microplastics and Baby Bottles

Feeding your baby can be challenging enough without the added worry of whether your baby’s bottle is safe. Recent lawsuits against major baby bottle manufacturers, including Philips Avent, Dr. Brown’s, Tommee Tippee, and Nuk, have raised concerns about plastic bottles leaching microplastics. While the topic of microplastics is not new, research continues to evaluate the potential health risks. It’s critical to maintain a balanced perspective – keeping in mind what we know and don’t know and how to use the information and resources you have to make the best decisions for you and your family.

More about the class action lawsuits

The lawsuits allege that the bottle manufacturing companies misled consumers. The claim explains that the companies failed to disclose that their plastic bottles and sippy cups leach harmful microplastics when heated, potentially exposing infants and toddlers to these particles. Although these bottles are marketed as BPA-free, the plaintiffs claim this created a false sense of security regarding their safety. Particularly that the manufacturers do not disclose on their labels that the bottles are made from polypropylene plastic, which can leach microplastics into food or drinks when heated. The bottle material is disclosed on the Philips and Dr. Brown websites.

The lawsuit represents all residents of the United States who purchased the included baby bottles. The lawsuit seeks monetary compensation for all those impacted. Additionally, the plaintiffs request that the manufacturers clearly include polypropylene on the labels, use a different material, or discontinue the baby bottles and cups. These legal actions are ongoing.

More about microplastics

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size that result from the breakdown of larger plastic items. Unfortunately, these tiny particles are part of the environment, as they are found nearly everywhere—in oceans, soil, and even the air we breathe. These particles can carry toxic chemicals, including additives used in plastics manufacturing and pollutants absorbed from the environment. 

There are many different types of plastic. Polypropylene is commonly used for food preparation and storage, including baby bottles. While there are other forms of plastic used for baby bottles, adequate data lacks to determine if different types of plastics leach more microplastics.

Given the extensive use of plastic today, microplastics are unavoidable to some extent. There is increased focus on the accumulation and elimination of microplastics, yet questions remain about how much exposure is too much. Ideally, the level would be zero, but that isn’t realistic. Ongoing research aims to understand their full impact on human health, especially for infants.

Current studies suggest that health concerns associated with microplastics include inflammation, oxidative stress, and endocrine system disruption, particularly interfering with hormone function. It’s worth acknowledging that the data includes studies in mice, rats, and swine, which limits the generalizability of the results. This means that caution should be used when generalizing the results to all humans. It doesn’t mean we dismiss the research, but it does mean we have to look at the big picture here in how we proceed. 

There is a significant discrepancy between the magnitude of the debate and actual scientific findings. Many studies acknowledge that there is a lack of strong evidence regarding the toxicity of microplastics in humans. There are many influencing variables, including the exposure concentration, particle components, contaminants, organs involved, and individual risk. While plastics can undoubtedly pose health risks, the extent and precise impact on human health warrants further research. This is a worthwhile area for future studies while acknowledging the importance of finding other safe and cost-effective alternatives.

More about what you can do

The conversation about microplastics is certainly complex, but you can simplify it like this: Plastic is everywhere and cost-effective, and while microplastics are less than ideal, it's most important to focus on what you can control and take steps that make sense to reduce risk (as complete removal is not always possible).

We used Philips Avent bottles with Vera and I am not concerned about our use of these bottles, just like I am with any plastic baby bottles currently on the market. But read below for more ways we can reduce risk of microplastics. 

There are many things that cause worry when raising a child, and we are all trying to do the best we can. Stay informed with reliable and accurate sources, and steer clear of fear-mongering or panic-inducing headlines. Digest the information thoughtfully, considering your values, resources, and family needs. This will help you to make the best decisions for you and your family. Here are a few things you can keep in mind to try and minimize microplastic exposure in children, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

• If you want to reduce use of plastics, try to aim for alternatives like glass, stainless steel, or silicone. These materials don’t carry the risk of microplastics.

• Avoid microwaving food or beverages in plastic or with plastic wrap. This includes infant formula or pumped breast milk. Instead, transfer food or beverages to glass or ceramic containers before microwaving to minimize the risk of microplastics and chemicals leaching.

• Do not put plastic food containers in the dishwasher, as the high heat can break them. When possible, wash plastic containers by hand with warm, soapy water.

• Look at recycling codes to help you identify and avoid plastics with harmful chemicals. Codes 3, 6, and 7 often contain substances linked to health issues. When possible, choose products labeled as “biobased” or “greenware.”

• Regular handwashing can reduce the transfer of microplastics and other contaminants from your hands to food or drinks.

• Wash all fruits and vegetables to remove surface contaminants, including microplastics, that might have settled on them. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables when you can to reduce the risk of contamination from the linings of cans or packaging.

• Choose toys and pacifiers that are phthalate- and BPA-free to reduce known risks, as these are commonly in children’s mouths.

• Personal actions and broader systemic changes are all part of the big picture to reduce the presence of microplastics in the environment. Encourage and participate in systemic changes, such as advocating for and supporting policies that reduce plastic consumption and waste, supporting companies that use sustainable practices and materials, and using biodegradable and compostable packaging materials.

When it comes to microplastics, the research is always ongoing. It’s important for companies and manufacturers of plastic products to continue with their due diligence in promoting safety. This lawsuit may lead to more clear labeling and “best-use” practices for plastic products.

On The Podcast

The Red Light, Green Light food labeling system has been around to categorize foods as good and bad and was initially created to support weight loss in children with obesity. However, there are many flaws to this system that can backfire when it comes to child health. I welcome Dr. Taylor Arnold, a PhD, registered dietician, and founder of Growing Intuitive Eaters. She is on a mission to foster a healthy relationship with food and teach adults how to talk to kids about food in a positive way.

She joins me to discuss:

• Why labeling systems for food is not conducive to creating a healthy relationship with food

• Why “talking less and showing more” can be a helpful strategy to encourage balanced eating

• Phrases to avoid when talking about foods with kids

Ask Dr. Mona

An opportunity for YOU to ask Dr. Mona your parenting questions!

Dr. Mona will answer these questions in a future Sunday Morning Q&A email. Chances are if you have a parenting concern or question, another parent can relate. So let's figure this out together!