"Iowa Lawmakers, Lobbyists Debate Ban on BPA Plastics"

"Research shows that a chemical in canned goods and certain plastic food containers can be toxic, but should Iowa ban such products from the market here?

A chemical called bisphenol A may cause changes in cells in breasts and the prostate gland that can increase risk of cancer, as well as trigger other disorders — but the jury’s still out.

Lobbyists for the chemical industry argue that an Iowa ban would be premature. State Sen. Joe Bolkcom, D-Iowa City, believes it’s time to act. 'Kids are the most vulnerable,' he said. And the federal government has been 'extraordinarily slow to regulate this compound,' he said.

A year ago, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reversed its previous position that the chemical was safe. The agency said there is 'some concern' about harm to fetuses and children, but said more research is needed."

Jennifer Jacobs reports for the Des Moines Register February 28, 2011.