Frederick vom Saal is one of 10 recipients if this year's Heinz Awards. The awards, presented by Teresa Heinz and the Heinz Family Foundation, recognize extraordinary achievements in environmental issues. Vom Saal is a University of Missouri professor and long-time leader in the field of research into bisphenol A safety. Here's an excerpt from the Heinz Award web site explaining his role in the issue:
Dr. Frederick vom Saal's groundbreaking research has significantly impacted public health policy as he has uncovered the risks associated with exposure to bisphenol A (BPA), a commonly used chemical ingredient in consumer products, such as baby bottles, receipt paper, food and soda cans. ... Frederick vom Saal has been one of the leading scientists in demonstrating that human health problems may be preventable by reducing exposures to certain common contaminants, including one, bisphenol A, for which he is, according to many, the world expert. His efforts have borne fruit in the United States and elsewhere around the globe.Heinz Awards recipients receive a $100,000 cash prize. The awards were established by Teresa Heinz in 1993 to honor the memory of her late husband, U.S. Sen. John Heinz, a Republican who supported environmental causes. Teresa Heinz is currently married to U.S. Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass.
