Bisphenol A, commonly abbreviated as BPA, is an organic compound with two phenol functional groups used to make polycarbonate and epoxy resins, along with other applications. It is found in consumer goods such as baby bottles, water bottles, plastic microwave food containers and canned food linings.
Known to be estrogenic since the mid 1930s, concerns about the use of bisphenol A in consumer products were regularly reported in the news media in 2008 after several governments issued reports questioning its safety, thus prompting some retailers to remove products containing it from their shelves.
In October 2008, Canada became the first country to formally declare BPA hazardous to human health due to its links with a wide range of health disorders.
A 2010 report from the United States FDA raised further concerns regarding exposure of fetuses, infants and young children.
According to the World Health Organisation’s INFOSAN a 2010 review concluded that Bisphenol A may increase cancer risk although our Australian food safety authority denies this.
The Australia and New Zealand Food Safety Authority (Food Standards Australia and New Zealand) do not see any health risk with bisphenol A baby bottles if the manufacturer’s instructions are followed. They say levels of exposure are very low and do not pose a significant health risk. It added that “the move by overseas manufacturers to stop using BPA in baby bottles is a voluntary action and not the result of a specific action by regulators.” It suggests the use of glass baby bottles if parents have any concerns.
To reduce exposure to Bisphenol:
- Avoid #7 and #3 plastic containers and reusable sports
water bottles - Do not microwave polycarbonate food containers.
- Use bottles for infants and toys labelled ‘BPA free’
- Reduce your use of canned foods. Eat fresh foods.
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