Finally chemical DEHP resritcted but what about the others ?

IS YOUR CHILD EATING DEHP ?

I am not a scientist nor have I studied senior chemistry, but it is very clear that internationally there is strong concern about health issues linked to chemicals that are used in plastics.

The recalls.gov.au website has recently announced that NICNAS (the Australian Government Chemical Assessment Scheme) has finally announced that restrictions should be placed on the chemical diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP). DEHP is only one phthalate in a large group of phthalate chemicals used in plastic products that we consume.

Phthalates including DEHP are used as softeners in toys and many other products made of PVC plastic to make them soft and pliable.


Phthalate chemcials can be found in many applications such as plastic toys, plastic food storage and utensils, flooring, wall coverings, wall art, shower curtains, vinyl skins, sheaths for electric cables, coated fabrics and shoes and the list goes on....

Studies have linked phthalates to health concerns such as :
suspected of causing cancer, kidney damage and disruption of the body's hormone system. A study by the International Centre for Indoor Environment and Energy (www.ie.dtu.dk), University of Denmark found that a child's risk of developing asthma and allergies increases when they are exposed to phthalates.

The PROPOSED Australian ban was announced Jan 25th 2010 yet is only for DEHP - diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) "in toys, childcare articles where significant mouth contact may occur and vessels and eating utensils for feeding infants".

A recent report by NICNAS found that "the risk of reproductive toxicity in children from the use of products containing DEHP is unacceptable" and recommended that the ACCC consider appropriate regulatory measures to limit children's exposure to DEHP.

Why has this taken so long ?
Why are all the other Phthalates banned in the EU also not banned in Australia ?

In July 2005, the EU permanently banned the use of phthalates DEHP, DBP and BBP in all children's articles. Additionally, the EU banned the use of DINP, DIDP, and DNOP in children's articles which can be put in the mouth. This ban became effective on January 16, 2007 .

The EU saw action on this health concern enforced in 2007 yet it has taken Australia an additional 3 years to make this PROPOSAL !

How long will it now take for the proposal to be accepted and enforced ?

Hooray for small steps ... the summary of all this is " avoid plastics" to protect your health.

A store that helps you create a healthy home

healthyinteriors.com.au is finally launched !

We have been busy researching product, asking lots of questions and sourcing items for the store that supports good health and a healthy home environment. The store currently sells a range of premium Australian Certified organic cotton bed linen, towels, pajamas and body basics. Many more exciting, quality chemical free products to arrive in the coming weeks…..

Look for the words “Certified Organic” when purchasing products as anyone can make organic claims, it is only those products with the word “Certified” that have proved their claims to an independent auditor. When buying organic make sure you are paying for REAL Organic product.

Room by room you can be informed with healthyinteriors.com.au to eliminate chemicals in your home and create a safer, healthier space for your family to live. The healthyinteriors.com.au store is a resource site with educational information about the toxins that may lurk in your home such as formaldehyde, flame retardants (PBDEs), bisphenol A, phthalates, pvc and many more.

There is so much information to wade through when tyring to source a healthy home and socially responsible product, such as ;

Where was the product made ?
Who made it ? Were workers treated fairly ?
What is it made from ?
Are all the materials used in making the product safe ?
Are materials and manufacturing practices sustainable ?
Does the product label inform me of all I need to know ?
Can the product compromise my health ?

As consumers we are not protected from chemicals sold on retail shelves disguised in bedding, clothing, furniture, cleaning products and personal care products. The Relish Designs healthy interior store only sells product from reputable suppliers who value consumer health and provide product that is free from harsh chemicals and audited where possible as quality Certified Organic.

We look forward to seeing you in the store and would value any comments you have !

May you have a Merry Christmas and safe holiday a fantastic 2010 awaits ...