Current labeling makes it difficult to determine whether a product contains the hormonally active chemical bisphenol A (BPA) as well as an entire group of compounds known as phthalates, about which scientists have also raised questions.

The following reports may help:

U.S. Food and Drug Administration:  Science Board subcommittee draft assessment of bisphenol A for use in food contact applications (9/16/2008) . . . and consideration by full committee (10/31/08)

Center for Science in the Public Interest: Links to a wealth of information on BPA safety from government, environmental groups and industry sources.

Environmental Working Group: Cosmetic Safety Database of phthalate-free health products.

Ecology Center: Nonprofit lists phthalate-free toys.

Consumer Reports: Magazine's advice on plastics to parents of babies.

Center for Science in the Public Interest: An advisory, "Hard Questions About a Hard Plastic."

American Chemistry Council: Industry group Q&A on plastics safety.

National Toxicology Program: NIH program's draft report two weeks ago triggered the recent news coverage.

National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences: "Since You Asked - Bisphenol A," also NIH. 

Institute for Agricultural and Trade Policy: Independent group puts out a Smart Plastics Guide. 

National Geographic: Magazine's Green Guide compiles past research and advice to parents.