What is BPA?

BPA (bisphenol-A) is a hormone mimicking chemical with estrogenic properties. This hormone or endocrine disruptor can interfere with the normal functioning of human and animal hormone systems producing a wide range of adverse effects including reproductive, developmental and behavioral problems.

Where is it found?

BPA is found in polycarbonate plastic food and beverage containers labeled recycling code 7, including (non BPA-free) baby bottles, plastic food wrap, and epoxy resins that line metal food cans. (Some new bio-based plastics are labeled #7, but are BPA-free.)

Why is it a problem?

Of 115 published animal studies, 81% found significant effects from low-level BPA exposure. Interestingly, these effects were found in over 90% of government-funded studies, but none of the 11 industry-funded studies. Adverse effects include:

• Altered immune function
• Early onset of puberty
• Increased prostate size
• Decreased sperm production
• Changes in gender-specific behavior
• Changes in hormones, including decreased testosterone
• Stimulation of mammary gland development in females
• Hyperactivity
• Increased aggressiveness
• Impaired learning and other changes in behavior

How is BPA transferred from plastics into humans?

Research is showing that plastic containers are leeching bisphenol-A into the foods and liquids they are holding and are subsequently ingested.

Who is most at risk?

Due to their immature immune systems, rapid development and different eating patterns, fetuses, infants and children around puberty are more vulnerable to toxic exposures.

How common is BPA exposure?

Human exposure to BPA is widespread. Scientists have measured BPA in the blood of pregnant women, in umbilical cord blood and in the placenta - all at levels demonstrated to alter development in animals. A Centers for Disease Control study detected BPA in the urine of 95% of adults sampled.

Why is BPA so controversial?

Many leading experts and the FDA argue that BPA is safe to the human public, but independent research suggests otherwise.

What alternatives are there?

Until there is an all out BPA ban, the best alternative is to avoid food and beverage containers that contain the chemical. Use glass or stainless steel refillable drinking bottles, instead of hard plastic ones. For juice or other drinks, it’s best to use lined aluminum bottles. For baby bottles, choose polypropylene, polyethylene or glass.

Plastics with recycling codes 1, 2, 4 & 5 are BPA-free and are considered the safest choices. Pliable, milky colored plastics do not contain polycarbonates.

How do I minimize exposure to BPA and other dangerous chemicals?

Avoid plastics with recycling codes: 3, 6 & 7.

Minimize canned food consumption. Many brands of soups and beans are now available in reusable glass jars. Buy soft drinks in glass bottles instead of cans.

If you can’t completely avoid polycarbonates, follow these tips:

• Heat foods and drinks in a safe container and wait until they are cool enough for consumption before transferring to plastic.
• Throw away old, scratched plastic polycarbonate baby bottles and sippy cups. Plastic showing signs of wear (scratches or a cloudy, crackled appearance) leach chemicals more readily.

What else can I do?

By choosing safer plastics and limiting plastic waste, you can protect your child from unnecessary chemical exposures and support a healthier, cleaner environment. You can also support companies and public policies that promote safer use of plastics. For example:

• Contact baby bottle manufacturers and urge them to replace polycarbonate in baby bottles with safer alternatives.
• Avoid buying products made of PVC, used in plastic containers (#3), building materials, toys and other consumer products.
• Buy bio-based plastic alternatives if available.

More resources:

Guide to Safer Children’s Products
Smart Plastics Guide