Six Chemicals Used In Plastic Toys Banned
Plastic is probably the most commonly used material in children’s products from toys to tableware. Despite its widespread use, however, plastic may not be the safest substance for our children, especially baby boys.
The European Union has voted to ban six chemicals–DEHP, DBP, BBP, DINP, DIDP and DNOP–used to manufacture the more pliable plastic used in children’s toys. (Reuters, July 5, 2005) DEHP, DBP, and BBP are collectively known as phthalates and are associated with an increase in cancer risk and genital defects in baby boys. DINP, DIDP, and DNOP cause swelling in the liver and kidneys of animals. Any toy sold in the European Union regardless of where it is made is subject to these regulations.
STATS at George Mason University, however, thinks that the fuss over phthalates in cosmetics and toys is “a health scare that stinks.” They explain that the European Union’s approach to chemicals is that they be banned if they cannot be proven safe.
This may, on the face of it, seem eminently sensible; but explaining what Europes embrace of the precautionary principle meant in practice, philosopher Roger Scruton revealed it’s essentially paranoid take on the world: “If you think there is a risk, then there is a risk; and if there is a risk, then forbid it.”
If you visit our sister blog, Genetics and Health, you will find a million and one other things to be paranoid about. As with parenting, you have to pick your battles.
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