NO IMMEDIATE BAN ON POLYCARBONATE , INFANT MILK BOTTLES

KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 (Bernama) -- Health Minister Liow Tiong
Lai said there was no need for an immediate ban on polycarbonate infant milk bottles containing Bisphenol A (BPA), said to be dangerous to babies and children's health.

"Although there have been calls for a ban by certain quarters, so far there been no strong scientific evidence to indicate this while studies conducted by international bodies including the World Health Organisation have been inconclusive," he said in a statement Wednesday.

A one-year transition period had been given to all concerned, including consumers, while the industry could withdraw the product from the market, besides making preparations to adhere to the ban from next March 1, he said.

Liow said his ministry had been monitoring the developments since 2001 and discussions had been held with all the relevant parties in making the best decision to protect the group at risk -- babies and children.

It is said that polycarbonate infant milk bottles containing BPA when placed in hot water for more than 10 minutes will hasten the transfer of BPA to the milk and this could adversly affect babies' nervous system.

The government had on March 14 decided to ban the sale of polycarbonate milk bottles containing BPA with effect from March 1, 2012 as a precautionary measure, as there have been no scientific evidence to show that the bottles are safe for babies and children.

Through press statements, posters and leaflets, the government has informed the public on how to recognise such milk bottles and the right way to use them to avoid the risks.

For more information on the matter, the public can call 03-888 33652/33653/ 33655 or visit http://moh.gov.my atau http://fsq.moh.gov.my.