Nalgene bottles recalled in Canada

    After months of concern over the potential hormonal-disrupting effect of the chemical base in Nalgene bottles, Canadian authorities have removed them from retail shelves.  The active ingredient that allows the bottles to be constructed with clear, unbreakable plastic has been documented  over several decades to influence hormonal balance.  The bottles' manufacturer argues that the release of this chemical to consumers is inconsequential, however, Canadian authorities decided not to allow the risk. 

    Bans have been considered by local American authorities, but threatened legal action by the manufacturing industry has thus far precluded formal action.  There is no substitute for the use of the chemical whose safety is disputed, and critics recognize that using "one-time-only" soft plastic bottles is a substantial environmental nightmare in its own right.