Better safe than sorry

Get drastic with plastic: Be selective in your use of plastic products, especially when it comes to serving and storing food. Don’t use plastic containers or wrap in the microwave, even if the label says “microwave safe”.

Get drastic with plastic: Be selective in your use of plastic products, especially when it comes to serving and storing food. Don’t use plastic containers or wrap in the microwave, even if the label says “microwave safe”.

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Eating fresh and frozen foods whenever possible will reduce exposure to Bisphenol-A (BPA), a chemical used in the lining of most food and drink cans. BPA is associated with a wide range of potential health effects, including impacts on the developing brain and disruption of endocrine (hormone) function. Also avoid plastic products made of PVC, commonly known as vinyl, which contain a class of chemical plasticisers called phthalates that damage health.

Bust that dust
Frequent vacuuming or wet mopping, and dusting with a damp cloth, prevents exposures to toxic substances in house dust such as lead and mercury. The developing brain of an unborn baby or young child is particularly susceptible to the effects of these toxins that cause learning and behavioural disorders, asthma, cancer and birth defects.

Go green when you clean
Switch to simple, non-toxic cleaners. Baking soda is a good scouring powder for tubs and sinks, and vinegar mixed with water works well for cleaning windows, surfaces and floors. Avoid air fresheners. Use fragrance-free laundry detergents to reduce exposure to the chemicals, some of which have been linked to disruption of normal hormone function. Also avoid antibacterial soaps, normal soaps are just as good.