Problem

1. Do a quick search on Bisphenol A (BPA). Based on the findings in your search and the text discussion on BPA, what are your thoughts on the safety of BPA use in consumer products? Do you believe the U.S. Food & Drug Administration's (FDA) position on BPA is valid? Why might the concern of BPA in baby products, such as bottles and pacifiers, be of greater concern than other products for the general population? Would you let your baby drink from a bottle with BPA?

2. Discuss an environmental occupational toxicant that has been in the news within the last 6 months. Discuss the concerns that have brought media attention to this toxicant. Discuss the common route of entry, health concerns, and symptoms that indicate toxicity of this chemical. Reflect on ways that this chemical may be avoided or the health concerns eradicated.

3. Reflect on your own thoughts and feelings about animal testing. Do a quick article search on animal testing. Review one article that is pro-animal testing and one article that is anti-animal testing. Discuss two of the pros and two of the cons of animal testing that were discussed in the articles. In researching both sides of the debate, has your perspective shifted any on the animal testing debate? Explain.

4. Reflect on the last time you looked at a product label. Did you find the information you wanted on the label? Discuss your thoughts on the requirements for product labeling. What changes do you believe would improve the presentation of necessary information for the consumer to make reasonable judgements about the product? Do you think warning statements on products are effective information for the consumer or not?