Toxic Chemical BPA in Sportswear Sold in Canada: Major Brands Implicated
A consumer watchdog group, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH), has issued legal notices to major athletic clothing brands after discovering high levels of the toxic chemical BPA in sportswear sold in Canada.
The tested brands include Adidas, Athleta, Champion, Fabletics, Kohl’s, New Balance, Nike, Patagonia, Pink, The North Face, and Reebok.
BPA, a toxic chemical found in polycarbonate plastics, has been linked to various health problems. Research has shown its association with brain and behavioral issues, high blood pressure, infertility, obesity, and even premature death.
The sportswear tested by the Center for Environmental Health revealed alarming levels of BPA, exceeding California’s limits.
Canada’s Stance on Toxic Chemical BPA
While Canada acknowledges the potential risks associated with BPA, comprehensive regulations similar to California’s are currently lacking.
The federal government has implemented specific restrictions on BPA, such as banning its use in baby bottles and setting limits for baby food containers and infant formula packaging.
However, BPA is still widely used in various consumer products, including sportswear.
Ensuring the safety of consumer products should be the responsibility of both the industry and regulatory bodies.
Under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act, companies are prohibited from manufacturing or selling products. That poses a danger to human health or safety.
However, the Center for Environmental Health emphasizes the need for government testing to avoid harmful substances like BPA in products that come into direct contact with our bodies.
Consumers should take steps to minimize their exposure to toxic chemical BPA in sportswear. The Center for Environmental Health recommends limiting the time spent wearing activewear. And promptly removing it after workouts to reduce contact.
Additionally, individuals are encouraged to inquire about product content and voice concerns directly to companies.
It is crucial to engage with elected officials to advocate for stronger regulations that prevent harmful products. Such as BPA-laden sportswear, from entering the market.
The presence of toxic chemical BPA in sportswear sold by major brands in Canada raises significant concerns regarding potential health risks. Canada has restricted certain chemicals, but further laws are required to safeguard consumers.
Advocating for openness, raising concerns, and encouraging elected authorities to impose stronger laws may help sportswear users stay safe and healthy.
Industry and regulators must collaborate to protect consumers from hazardous compounds like BPA in body-contact items.
