For several years I have been concerned about the use of toxic BPA in the linings of cans that many people buy in stores. I am concerned about BPA because it is a chemical that has endocrine-disrupting properties linked to cancer, obesity and even learning disabilities. Furthermore, it poses a risk to pregnant women and to pre-natal development.

The Environment and Natural Resources Committee recently gave its support to LD 1181, a bill that would require large food manufacturers (those that make over $1 billion in gross annual sales) to report their use of BPA by next year.

It makes sense to me that consumers would benefit from knowing the ingredients of the food products they buy, perhaps choosing not to purchase those items that include BPA. I would not purchase such products because I want my three grandchildren to have the clearest and best opportunity for good health as they approach their teen years. I want them to grow up with the same opportunities their parents had, and that I had, when I was growing up.

I would urge all Maine representatives and senators to support the majority report of LD 1181. They can be assured the bill would not apply to Maine businesses — only to those large manufacturers such as Campbells, Del Monte and ConAgra.

The public deserves to know what is in the food they eat.

Elizabeth Cooke, Farmington