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What Parents Need to Know About PP Plastic and Microplastics As parents, we do everything we can to keep our babies safe, especially when it comes to feeding. That’s why sterilising baby bottles is a non-negotiable part of early parenting. But did you know that the very process designed to protect your baby might be quietly exposing them to something harmful? Let’s talk about PP plastic bottles, sterilisation, and the growing concerns around microplastics. What Are PP Bottles? PP stands for polypropylene - a lightweight, affordable plastic commonly used in baby bottles. You’ve probably seen them: clear or frosted plastic, usually BPA-free and labelled as microwave or dishwasher safe. They’ve been around for decades and are still one of the most widely used bottle types on the market. But Here’s the Catch: Heat and Plastic Don’t Mix Well Recent research has raised a big red flag: when PP bottles are exposed to heat, especially through steam sterilisation or boiling, they can release microplastics into your baby’s milk or formula. A 2020 study published in Nature Food found that sterilised PP bottles can release up to 16 million microplastic particles per litre when formula is prepared at 70°C (as per WHO guidelines). That number increases the more bottles are reheated, scratched, or reused. Yes - that’s millions of tiny plastic particles potentially ending up in your baby’s tummy. What Are Microplastics - and Why Does It Matter? Microplastics are tiny fragments of plastic, invisible to the eye, that can enter the body through food or liquids. While research is still emerging, early studies suggest these particles may: Interfere with gut health Carry hormone-disrupting chemicals Trigger inflammation or immune responses Babies, with their developing systems, are especially vulnerable. Safer Alternatives for Peace of Mind The good news? You have options. If you’re sterilising bottles regularly (and most parents are!), consider switching to a material designed to handle heat without leaching plastic particles: Material What It Is Why It’s Better PA   (Polyamide) BPA-free plastic alternative High heat resistance, no microplastic release under sterilisation What Can You Do Right Now? Check your bottle material: Look for the recycling symbol or label. “PP” = polypropylene. Avoid reheating in the same bottle: Instead, sterilise, then prepare formula in a separate container and transfer if using PP. Switch to heat-safe materials, Especially if you sterilise daily. At Lil’Kooee, we hope to make a difference. Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or combo-feeding, we’ve got your back. Got questions about bottles or sterilising safely? Let’s chat. Reach out anytime. Shop the safer choice for your baby.

Why Are Major Baby Bottle Brands Facing Lawsuits Over Microplastics? What Every Parent Needs to Know As parents, we want the very best for our babies, especially when it comes to feeding. That’s why the recent news about major baby bottle brands facing class-action lawsuits should be on every parent’s radar. What’s Happening? In 2024, several lawsuits have been filed against some of the most popular baby bottle brands, including: Philips North America (Avent bottles) Handi-Craft Company (Dr. Brown’s bottles and cups) Newell Brands (NUK baby bottles) Mayborn USA (Tommee Tippee bottles) These lawsuits allege that their polypropylene (PP) bottles release microplastic particles when heated, which could be harmful to babies. Parents were not informed about these risks, and the labels often don’t mention this issue. In some cases, the “BPA-free” label has been criticised as misleading because it doesn’t address microplastic exposure. What Are Microplastics and Why Should You Care? Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, sometimes invisible to the naked eye, that can be released from plastic products when heated or stressed. In these cases, scientific studies have found that heating PP bottles can release up to 16 million microplastic particles per litre of liquid. These particles can be ingested by babies during feeding, raising concerns about their potential health impacts. While research is ongoing, many parents want to avoid any unnecessary exposure to microplastics. What Are the Lawsuits Seeking? The class-action lawsuits are pushing for: Damages for consumers Clear, accurate labelling about microplastic risks Reformulation of products to reduce or eliminate microplastic shedding Restrictions on the sales of these products unless they meet safety requirements What Does This Mean for Parents? If you’re currently using bottles made from polypropylene, it’s a good time to reconsider your options. Many popular brands you trust might be quietly releasing microplastics during everyday feeding routines. A Safer Choice: Lil’Kooee Natural Instinct PA Bottles At Lil’Kooee, we understand the concerns of parents who want safe, reliable feeding products. That’s why our Natural Instinct PA bottles are designed with premium, safe materials that do not shed microplastics even when warmed. Paired with our Natural Instinct teats, our bottles offer your little one a natural, worry-free feeding experience that prioritises health and safety. Final Thoughts Feeding your baby should never involve compromises on safety. While the lawsuits continue to unfold, making an informed switch to safer alternatives like Lil’Kooee’s PA bottles can give you peace of mind. Because your baby deserves nothing less than the best. Shop the safer choice for your baby.