NDP health critic Judy Wasylycia-Leis said Clement should have bumped up the BPA announcement when the leaked report began affecting the marketplace.
"I think the minute the news was out earlier this week about the government considering including this as a toxic substance on the list of dangerous chemicals, he should have immediately acted," she said.
"There is actual chaos out on the marketplace with retailers wondering what to do."
BPA has been the material of choice in baby bottles and reusable water bottles for decades because it is lightweight, shatter-resistant and transparent. Other forms of the substance are also used to line cans.
It is also found in sports gear like hockey helmets, electronic equipment, automobiles and CDs and DVDs. "In these products it is safe," Clement declared.
Concerns have been raised, however, that BPA in polycarbonate products and epoxy linings can migrate into food and beverages.
"Based on our scientific assessment, we can say that this is not a concern for most Canadians," Clement said.
"And so, while we are on track to ban polycarbonate baby bottles, Canadians can continue to use hard plastic, reusable water bottles and plastic tableware if they so choose."
Clement assured parents they need not worry while government and scientists are searching for alternative technologies.
"Even now, the nutritional benefits of canned infant formula far outweigh the risks of exposure to bisphenol A," he said, adding that parents should nevertheless avoid pouring boiling water into polycarbonate baby bottles.
Green party leader Elizabeth May says the government now needs to ban other dangerous chemicals, such as nonylphenol.
That chemical has similar hormone-disrupting properties, and is found in plastics, personal care products, and commercial and household cleaners.
Environment Canada scientists also found low levels of the chemical can harm fish and aquatic organisms over time. Studies indicate it can currently be found in wastewater and sludge treatment plants.
