Question from goin’ green

Could you please tell me if there are any risks to humans or the environment with the product by Shaklee called “Basic G?”

According to the Material Safety Data Sheet, the hazardous ingredients are didecyl-dimethyammonium chloride, n-Alkyl (C14-50%, C12-40%, C16-10%) dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, ethanol, octyldimethyl amine oxide, ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid, sodium hydroxide)

This product comes in a concentrate. To use, 3/4 tsp. is used per quart of water.

I am planning to use this only for surfaces contaminated with raw meat or in bathrooms. It will replace the product, 409 in my home as I am under the impression that Basic G is a safe alternative. Do you have other suggestions for a safe (for humans and the environment) product that could be used for the previously mentioned applications? Thanks

Debra’s Answer

The law requires that companies list substances on the MSDS sheet as hazardous ingredients because they are hazardous. Yes, hazardous to humans and the environment.

I don’t have time today to look up all these chemicals and write out their health effects. But you can type each one into your favorite search engine and find out how they are hazardous to health.

In my kitchen, I cut meat on a cutting board that is used only for that purpose, then I put it in the sink and scrub it with hot hot water and soap, and let it air dry on the dish rack. I’ve had no problems with contamination.

In the bathroom, vinegar or hydrogen peroxide will kill germs, also hot water, or a steam machine.

Readers, any other suggestions?

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Question from Heidi B.

would you have any information on acrylic plastic dinnerware? we bought some really fun tumblers from costco but when we got them home and realized what an impulsive move we made. we don’t know anything about acrylic plastic and we avoid plastics especially with food…the colors were just so fun ; ) unless they are somehow safe, and we doubt that, they are going back.

thank you!

Debra’s Answer

Acrylic is made from acrylonitrile, a special group of vinyl compounds. In my book Home Safe Home I noted that acrylonitrile is included on the Environmental Protection Agency’s list of sixty-five “priority pollutants” recognized as being hazardous to human health. Scorecard: Chemical Profiles: Acrylonitrile notes that it is a carcinogen.

Take them back, please…

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Question from Jennifer

Dear Debra,

I am having a hard time in my limited free time finding info about rGBH and rBST in milk. I have seen the link on your site to the recently published book about the dangers of rGBH in milk. Is rBST the same as rGBH and is it also dangerous? I do understand that they are both hormones designed to induce higher milk production in cows.

I just can’t find the information which tells me whether to avoid both hormones in milk or just avoid rGBH. I know some of these hormones occur naturally in the cow to create the lactation however it is my impression I should be looking for milk which states something to the effect of, “organic”, “no added hormones” or “rGBH free”. Also, if a milk carton says rGBH free it doesn’t mean it is rBST free–are the hormones used together or do the farmers use one or the other? How do I know if I am being duped if buying a carton which says rGBH free–am I likely getting one which has rBST instead?

Also, it is my impression that both rGBH and rBST are hormones which influence milk production in cows and can not affect growth or sexual development in humans. Is this true?

Thank you for helping clear this up!

Jennifer

Debra’s Answer

I’m going to give you a short and general answer to this, as I, like you, don’t have the time to look up everything.

I always look for products that are in their most natural state possible. So milk or milk products for me would be “organic,” “bio-dynamic” (which is even more in harmony with nature than organic), or “grass-fed” (which makes an even more nutritious milk). It’s unlikely these milks would contain any added hormones, but to be sure, you can always call the manufacturer and double check.

If the label says “rGBH free,” you may be getting one which has rBST instead. “Hormone-free” would be a better choice.

I don’t drink milk myself, but I do eat Natural By Nature certified organic, grass-fed cream. I buy it at my local natural food store. The label says “our dairy herds are not treated with synthetic hormones or antibiotics.

I also eat Brown Cow Yogurt, also certified organic, which says “No Artificial Growth Hormones” on the label.

I’m usually looking for indicators of GOOD on product labels, rather than looking for what to avoid.

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Question from Laura

Debra, you commented on wanting long underwear in cotton — presumably because it is more eco-friendly than synthetics? but you must remember that conventional cotton probably does as much ecological damage as most synthetics. I actually have some wonderful polyester long underwear (cuddleduds) which has lasted about 15 years and is very warm, doesn’t cling under my clothes, and although certainly NOT made from recycled pop bottles at the time I purchased it, I can state that its longevity and durability have certainly helped minimize its carbon footprint. I wonder if anyone is producing long johns out of recycled polyester fibers?

Laura

Debra’s Answer

Actually, I wear cotton because it is more comfortable against my skin, and it’s a renewable resource. I’ve already discussed wearing non-organic cotton at Q&A: Conventional vs organic cotton clothing.

True, synthetics last longer, but I just can’t wear them. And they last too long–they don’t biodegrade.

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Question from laura kasisky

I was diagnosed with mcs 6 years ago. How do others deal with hospital stays and hospital procedures. My family has a history of heart problems. I’d like to be prepared in case this situation should arise. The only doctor who is sympathetic to my needs is 2 hours away. I’m not that comfortable with the local doctor that I see.

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Leah

Does anyone own one of these or know anything about them? I am considering purchasing one. The information on their website is impressive, but I am afraid I may be missing something. It looks like it removes most impurities, without removing minerals and they even have a special filter for removing fluoride.

The website is http://www.berkeywater.com.

Thank you!

Debra’s Answer

Hmmmm…interesting. This is a free-standing unit that you pour water into, with a large filter. I would get the stainless steel rather than the plastic unit.

Readers, any experience with this?

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Question from Mara Di Donna

Dear Debra- I found a used car I wanted to buy (Accord 1997) but the man who owns it put car in storage for 2 months each winter with MOTH BALLS inside the car! I have asthma and resperatory sensitivities and even though he says the smell wears out, I wonder if this trigger reactions? I’ve never used moth balls before. Thanks! Mara

Debra’s Answer

Mothballs are toxic and especially bad if you have respiratory problems.

Please look for another car.

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Question from Tory

I just bought a second hand head board for my bed. It reeks of perfumes, which is the main trigger for my MCS. What do you recommend for cleaning such things? This is made of wood. In the past, I have left things outsided for many months to “outgas.” But, I don’t want to hurt the wood.

Tory in CO

Debra’s Answer

I’d still go with airing it out in the sun, or applying heat in some way.

Readers, your suggestions?

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Question from Yvonne Clark

Hi Everyone…I am seeking an answer on how to eliminate the smell of cat urine. I have been feeding some strays by my house and they have repaid me by spraying my screened back door. The bottom part is made of metal. I have tried everything and though the smell isn’t as strong as it was, it still lingers. I have a nose like a bloodhound and everytime I open that door, which is every day, I get a whiff of it. I am trying to be as environmentally conscious as possible. Any suggestions???

Thanks

Yvonne Clark

Wilkes Barre, PA

Debra’s Answer

Readers?

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Question from Helen

We are looking for a de-icer safe for people and plants for sidewalks and driveways. There are places below our roof-line where the ice is several inches thick.

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

I have no experience with this, as I have never lived in an icy climate.

Readers?

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