Bisphenol-A (BPA)

1. First aid is not expected to be needed.
2. For more information about concerns from long-term exposures, read below and check out the National Toxicology Program.

What is Bisphenol-A (BPA)?

Since the 1960s, Bisphenol-A or BPA, an industrial chemical, has been used to harden plastics and create epoxy resins. BPA-based plastic is clear, strong, and flame resistant. Manufacturers use BPA in electronics, electronic data storage (like CDs), and construction materials. It is also common for BPA-derived epoxy resins to coat the inside of many foods and beverage containers, as well as in the print of some types of receipts.

What are the concerns associated with Bisphenol-A?

There are concerns regarding chronic exposure to BPA, especially when it leaches into food and beverages. Some research has shown chronic exposure to BPA can pose possible health effects for both children and adults. After reviewing and assessing many studies, the FDA has determined BPA is safe at the low levels present in some foods, however, in 2012, the FDA banned the use of BPA products for babies such as baby bottles and infant formula packaging.  BPA resin coating is still present in a small percentage of canned goods today.  Close monitoring by the FDA continues.

The National Toxicology Program (NTP)  provides ratings regarding the possibility that human development or reproduction might be adversely affected by exposure to bisphenol A (BPA):

• There is some concern for developmental toxicity of fetuses, infants, and children involving possible effects on the brain, prostate gland, and behavior.
• There is minimal concern for developmental toxicity of fetuses, infants, and children involving possible effects on the mammary gland, and early puberty in females. Also, minimal concern for occupational-related reproductive toxicity in adults.
• There is negligible concern for malformations in newborns, and reproductive toxicity in adults, both men, and women.

>What can you do to minimize or prevent exposure to BPA?

The NTP recommends the following practices to reduce exposure:

• Avoid heating plastic containers and do not use plastic in the microwave or pour boiling water into plastic bottles when making formula. A best practice is to hand-wash plastic bottles, cups, and plates.
• Choose fresh or frozen foods over canned, some canned foods still contain BPA linings.
• Choose non-plastic containers for food storage such as glass, porcelain, or stainless steel; they do not contain BPA.
• Look for infant formula, baby bottles, and toys that have BPA-free labels. 

If you have questions about exposure to BPA, call the Missouri Poison Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. The poison center is open all day, every day for poisoning emergencies and questions.

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