Last week we speculated that babies are likely being exposed to bisphenol A, the harmful chemical found in polycarbonate plastics. Researchers have now confirmed this is indeed the case and published a paper yesterday with the results.

The 19 bottles tested included popular brands such as Avent, Disney and Gerber and were heated to 175 degrees Fahrenheit (80 degrees Celsius) to simulate a dishwasher's effect on the bottles after 60 to 100 cycles. Every single one of the bottles tested leached bisphenol A at approximately five to seven parts per billion. Even worse, the researchers determined fatty or acidic liquids such as milk and apple juice may act as catalysts and cause more substantial leaching than water.

U.A. health authorities are still trying to reassure parents by pointing out that the level of exposure to bisphenol A they've deemed safe is still more than 25 times the amount found in baby bottles. Critics point out that babies may be more vulnerable to the chemical than adults and since those "safe" exposure levels apply to adults, babies may still face the potential risk of devlopmental issues. Health Canada is still reviewing the policies surrounding polycarbonate plastics, with results due in May.

Right now there are a lot conflicting reports about bisphenol A. The question is, until there is more conclusive evidence available, are you willing to take the risk? Fifty years ago, smoking was considered healthy and heavily promoted through television and radio ads and obviously now we hear an entirely different message. So is it safe to take the word of these health authorities based on incomplete research?

As we suggested last week, switching to glass bottles may still be the best choice. Even though Evenflo plastic bottles were one of the brands tested and confirmed positive for leaching, the company does carry a glass option as well.

Hit the jump to read more about the research regarding bisphenol A found in baby bottles.

» Time