In recent years, studies[3][4] have suggested that polycarbonate plastics such as the ones used by Nalgene may leach endocrine disruptors. Nalgene denies that the quantity leached from their products poses a significant threat to health.[5] Among the secreted chemicals, Bisphenol A (BPA) is an area of concern as it binds to estrogen receptors, thus altering gene expression.[6] Other research has found that fixatives in polycarbonate plastics can cause chromosomal error in cell division called aneuploidy. Nalgene claims these chemicals are only potentially released from Nalgene products when used at temperatures outside of the designed range.
In November 2007, Mountain Equipment Co-op removed all hard, clear polycarbonate plastic water bottles (including Nalgene-branded product) from their shelves and no longer offers these items for sale. In December 2007, Lululemon made a similar move.
An alternative is available in the polyethylene versions of these products (made out of HDPE, Nalgene's traditional material), which are free of these chemicals. They can be identified by their greater flexibility, their translucent, "milky" appearance, and by the number 2 triangular plastic recycling symbol on the bottom, rather than the number 7 on a polycarbonate bottle.
On Tuesday April 15th, 2008 the Globe and Mail reported that Health Canada will announce Wednesday April 16th that Bisphenol A is "dangerous" and may go as far as designating the chemical a toxic. Canada is the first nation to make this designation.[7]
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