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We continue to hear about the harmful effects of BPA for our kids at any age including in utero. I have to be honest, I can barely keep up with all of the things we need to precaution with in terms of our kids health. BPA is something I take seriously. One of my closest friends who is a complete braniac with a PHD from Dartmouth, has been studying the harmful effects of BPA on rats for years. When I was pregnant three years ago, she insisted I get educated.

I was shocked to find out that Campbell's has refused to remove BPA from the lining of it's cans. According to an article by Carolyn Castiglia on Babble.com : "Healthy Child Healthy World, a Los Angeles-based non-profit that helps parents protect kids from toxins, has launched a campaign at Change.org urging the Campbell Soup Company to stop lining their cans with BPA.

A recent report from the Breast Cancer Fund found high levels of BPA in canned foods geared specifically towards children, like Campbell's "SpaghettiOs with Meatballs" and "Disney Princess Cool Shapes" soup."

According to Castiglio "Another study published in the most recent issue of Pediatrics revealed that 3-year-old girls exposed in utero to BPA have increased risk for behavioral and emotional problems. "With studies linking BPA to many serious illnesses that can be heartbreaking to families, it only makes sense that we start eliminating it from our daily lives," said Rachel Sarnoff, executive director of Healthy Child Healthy World. "We supported the ban on BPA in baby bottles that's been adopted by many states, but older children also need protection from BPA's potential health risks. It's time to help companies like Campbell's understand how important it is for us as parents to get BPA out of our cans - and our kids."

BPA exposure is linked to health problems like cancers, diabetes, early-onset puberty, behavioral issues, and obesity. Children are especially vulnerable to the health risks posed by BPA.

Canned food producers like Hain Celestial, H.J. Heinz, and ConAgra-owner of brands like Chef Boyardee and Hunt's-have announced plans to remove BPA from food packaging and have started using BPA-free can linings for some of their products. Campbell's has not announced any plans to eliminate BPA from its can linings. Sign Healthy Child Healthy World's petition at Change.org and tell Campbell's execs that it's time to ditch BPA."

So how do you know if your plastic products or cans contain BPA? They will usually have a 7 on the bottom for recycling purposes, but not always.

How can you protect yourself and your kids from BPA?

* Don't microwave polycarbonate plastic food containers. Polycarbonate plastic is strong and durable, but over time it may break down from use at high temperatures.

* Reduce your use of canned foods.

* When possible, opt for glass, porcelain, or stainless steel containers, particularly for hot food or liquids.

* Use baby bottles that are free of bisphenol A.

What do you think of Campbell's decision? How concerned are you about BPA? Post below.