Bisphenol A (abbreviated BPA) is a chemical compound that is used to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. The use of BPA in polycarbonate plastics creates a plastic that is clear, hard and practically shatterproof. Epoxy resins containing BPA are used as coatings on the inside of food and beverage cans.
What types of products is BPA used in?
BPA is currently used in the production of several plastic products including baby and water bottles, medical devices, sports equipment as well as household electronics. Bisphenol A is also used in the production of epoxy resin coatings that are used on the inside of food and beverage cans such as infant formula cans.
Why is there concern over the use of BPA in plastics?
The use of BPA has recently become controversial because studies have found the chemical mimics the hormone estrogen and that long-term exposure to low doses of bisphenol A may prove to be toxic to humans.
Recent studies have reported that when polycarbonate plastics are heated at extreme temperatures, higher levels of BPA, than those considered safe, may leach out into foods and beverages.
Has a recall been issued on products containing BPA?
At this time, the FDA is currently reviewing its position on the use of BPA in consumer products; however, a recall or ban on products containing BPA has not yet been issued.
Although the FDA has not issued a ban on products containing bisphenol A several infant product manufacturers have made the decision to voluntarily remove polycarbonate products from their product lines and replace them with polypropylene and glass alternatives.
How can I find out if the products I am currently using to feed my baby contain BPA?
Polycarbonate plastic products, which are made of hard, clear plastic generally, contain BPA unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer. Polypropylene plastic products, which are made of softer, translucent plastic, are free of bisphenol A.
The number 7 plastic recycling symbol is used to identify polycarbonate plastics as well as several other types of plastics. Number 7 is often referred to as the catchall category for recyclable plastics; therefore, it is important to keep in mind that not all plastics identified with the number 7 are polycarbonates. Additionally, not all polycarbonate plastics are marked with the number 7.
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