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 TORONTO -- Canada's largest specialty seller of outdoor goods says it's waiting for Health Canada to clear bisphenol A before it reconsiders restocking its shelves with products containing the hormone-disrupting chemical, which studies have linked to infertility and cancer.
Vancouver-based Mountain Equipment Co-op pulled most of the products made from polycarbonate plastic, which contains the controversial chemical - commonly known as BPA - from its shelves on Wednesday, said spokesman Tim Southam.
"We are looking to the federal government for guidance on this issue," he said in an interview from Vancouver.
"So in the event that the federal government's review determines that BPA is OK and that it doesn't pose a health risk, then we will revisit the decision we've made."
The retailer removed a number of water bottles and food containers, but left other products that contain the chemical, like water filters, on store shelves, he added.
Some Mountain Equipment Co-op members, who pay a one-time $5 fee to shop at their 11 stores across Canada, raised concerns about the chemical, Southam acknowledged. But the retailer has been following the issue for the "last two to three years," he added.
The company didn't banish all polycarbonates because the plastic is also used within components for technically specific products, like water filters, which stores will continue to sell, he said.
Polycarbonate is particularly well-suited to outdoor activities because it's lightweight, shatter-resistant and has thermal properties, Southam said.
BPA has been shown to mimic the female hormone estrogen and could lead to hormonal disruptions such as early puberty.
Health Canada is examining the health risks of BPA - which can also be found in baby bottles, sippy cups and the lining of food cans - and is expected to report back to the federal government by May.
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty said last month he would appoint a panel of medical experts to study chemicals like BPA after meeting with experts and parents who want the chemical banned.
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