CDC: Rocket fuel chemical found in baby formula

[Why Syzygy]

But, it's "Safe".


ATLANTA (AP) — Traces of a chemical used in rocket fuel were found in samples of powdered baby formula, and could exceed what's considered a safe dose for adults if mixed with water also contaminated with the ingredient, a government study has found. (...)

No tests have ever shown the chemical caused health problems, but scientists have said significant amounts of perchlorate can affect thyroid function. The thyroid helps set the body's metabolism. Thyroid problems can impact fetal and infant brain development. (...)

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, aware of the debate over perchlorate in food and water, has not recommended that people alter their diet or eating habits because of the chemical. (...)

The largest amounts of the chemical were in formulas derived from cow's milk, the study said. (...)

The agency issued a statement Friday saying perchlorate exposure is a serious issue and "a top priority" for EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson. EPA officials expect to announce a decision soon about future steps in dealing with the chemical.

The EPA has checked nearly 4,000 public water supplies serving 10,000 people or more. About 160 of the water systems had detectable levels of perchlorate, and 31 had levels high enough to exceed a new safety level the EPA is considering.

CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iv7iKxtfzjqINoGSGDUuSwLow4TQD97B7DLG0

[MADem]

1. WTF is a "safe dose" of rocket fuel...for anyone? nt

[Why Syzygy]

2. As long as they aren't glowing?

How about we feed it to the FDA guys and find out? They don't have a problem with it.

Have a little rocket fuel with your Post Toasties!

[Celebration]

3. Perchlorate in water is a huge problem in some areas

http://www.perchlorate.org/

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

4. More and more folks are finding they have thyroid problems

Now I'm beginning to understand that it isn't just because you don't live near an ocean and don't eat seafood and iodized salt.

[cosmik debris]

5. More bad journalism

They tested 4000 systems and found that 0.7% had levels that exceed a standard that is NOT in effect.

And of course they glossed over the fact that perchlorate does occur naturally. But it is so much more sensational to claim that rocket fuel is to blame.

This is old news dragged up by a reporter who wanted a sensational story to scare people. It worked.

[Why Syzygy]

6. More bad reading comprehension.

It was published last month, but the Environmental Working Group — a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy organization — issued a press release Thursday {4/2/2009} drawing attention to it.