European Union (EU) bans Bisphenol A (BPA) from food contact: Here’s why it should be avoided

The EU has recently declared a ban on the use of Bisphenol A, commonly known as BPA, in materials that come into contact with food, considering it to be a compound with significant health risks. BPA is a chemical used in the production of plastics and resins. It has been under much scrutiny for its potentially harmful effects on human health and the environment.
What is BPA, and why is it dangerous?
Bisphenol A is widely used for the production of polycarbonate plastics or epoxy resins, which are used in food packaging, water bottles, and linings of canned food. It has been determined that BPA easily leaches into foods and beverages, especially when heated.
The Endocrine Society conducted research that established BPA as an endocrine disruptor that acts like estrogen in the body. Exposure over time has been associated with hormonal imbalances, reproductive problems, developmental issues in children, and heightened risks of some cancers.
This places the EFSA on a similar step, having recently lowered its acceptable daily intake of BPA from 4 micrograms per kilogram of body weight to an almost infinitely conservative 0.2 nanograms per kilogram. The move is motivated by increasing research that low levels of BPA exposure pose health risks.
This prohibition will be an important step toward securing public health as well as enhancing safer food use," said a spokesperson for the EU while announcing the restriction. The move corresponds with increased initiatives worldwide to lessen the usage of BPA, with related measures implemented already in Canada and Japan, and recently in several US states.
A joint study by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Toxicology Program highlighted significant developmental and reproductive concerns associated with BPA exposure.
Harvard University conducted a study where the BPA levels of the urine were shown to rise by 66% in people who had food from BPA-lined containers. It highlighted how ubiquitous this chemical has become in the food supply chain.
Environmental health perspectives
Studies in Environmental Health Perspectives found that BPA exposure during pregnancy leads to behavioral changes and developmental problems in children. This led to a demand for stronger regulation.
Why avoid BPA-based products?
Hormonal Disruption: BPA is an endocrine disruptor that disrupts the body's endocrine system, causing reproductive health issues and hormone imbalances.
Cancer Risk: BPA exposure has been linked to an increased risk of breast and prostate cancer.
Developmental Issues: Exposure during prenatal and early childhood has been related to delays in development and also cognitive problems.
Safer substitutes
Consumers must look for products bearing the label 'BPA-free'. Alternative products include glass, stainless steel, and BPA-free plastic as safer containers for food and beverage storage.
The EU's BPA ban speaks to the critical need to emphasize health and safety in food-related materials. With evidence mounting against BPA, this is a critical reminder to adopt safer practices and materials in life.
Consumers will do well to remain vigilant about their choices in products that are free from BPA and support changes in regulations that pave the way for a healthier, toxin-free future.