Frequently Asked Questions
What does "Scümpa" mean?
“Scumpa” is the Romanian word for precious, an affectionate term of endearment for children and loved ones, and Christina’s inspiration for creating a new approach to play.
What makes Scümpa™ products different?
Scümpa™ playthings are based on the values of raising healthy kids and keeping the planet clean. All of our materials are chosen with great care and thought, so that our products are not toxic, poisonous or harmful to your children or the environment.
Why should I be concerned about plastic?
According to research by eco-chemist Michael Braungart, many main-brand plastic toys “emit more chemicals than a gasoline station.” Many types of plastics are used in toys and their packaging – some worse than others. All of them, however, use a chemical cocktail of dyes, stabilizers, and/or softeners, which are released into the air throughout the life of material. So while your child is playing with a plastic toy, he or she is breathing in the chemicals it is steadily releasing.
What is PLA? How is it safer than plastic?
Polylactic acid (P.L.A.) is a biodegradable polymer derived from lactic acid. It is a highly versatile material and is made from 100% renewable resources like corn, sugar beets, wheat and other starch-rich products. (Polylactic acid exhibits many properties that are equivalent to or better than many petroleum-based plastics, which makes it suitable for a variety of applications.) PLA is a nonvolatile, odorless polymer and is classified as GRAS (generally recognized as safe) by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States (3). For more information about PLA, visit: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/AE210
How does the Scümpa™ Aisle
Easel™ attach to a shopping cart? Do I need tools?
The Aisle Easel is designed for convenience and ease of use. No tools are necessary, and the first time you use the Easel it will take under 30 seconds to put onto the cart. After that, you won’t even have to think about it. The front drawing surface of the Easel has a lip that fits snuggly on the front of the shopping cart, and Handle Rests that sit in the space between your hands on the bar that pushes the cart.
When can I buy Scümpa™ products?
Our products are scheduled to be available in the spring of 2007. If you’d like to be contacted when Scümpa products are available on this website and in local stores, please let us know by filling out the Contact form.
