BPA FAQ

Here's a Summary of Basic Facts on BPA
  • An astounding 6 billion pounds of BPA are produced per year.
  • Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical present in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins (clear, lightweight plastics and resins). It has been in use since the early 1950s and is commonly found in CDs, some food a drink containers, electronics, auto parts and as a liner in some metal cans.
  • BPA contamination is so wide-spread, trace amounts can be found almost everywhere, from rivers, tap water and bottled water to recycled paper and credit card receipts.
  • BPA is an endocrine-disruptor, which has been shown in animal studies to imitate estrogen and other hormones, according to the National Institute of Health.
  • In September 2008, the National Toxicology Program (NTP) finalized its report on BPA, which concluded that BPA may affect human development. They reported some concern for effects on the brain, behavior, and prostate gland in fetuses, infants, and children at current human exposures to BPA. They also called for further research on the toxicity of BPA at lower levels.
  • The main risk for BPA exposure comes through consumption. BPA can get into food and water by leaching from plastics containing the chemical. Pregnant women, young children and women at risk for breast cancer may be particularly vulnerable to the potential effects of exposure.
  • Many places are not waiting for the FDA to take action. Canada declared BPA a "dangerous substance" and was the first country to ban the chemical from baby products. Chicago, Illinois banned BPA from baby bottles in 2009.
  • Look for a #7 on the bottom of a container as an indicator it may contain BPA.

 

Is BPA harmful?

Some scientific studies suggest that it is, but it's very difficult to determine what levels of exposure are harmful. The National Toxicology Program's (NTP) report on BPA links certain forms of cancer and developmental defects to high doses of Bisphenol A. The FDA has said the current level of exposure to BPA is below the level that may cause heath effects. However, some recent studies suggest that it is not safe even at low levels, and the NTP has called for further research on low-dose effects.

But, the FDA said it's safe. What should I believe?

FDA based its recommendation on the assumption that the doses most people are exposed to are lower than the doses found to be harmful in studies. However, more evidence is emerging that shows danger even at lower levels. While we hope new evidence will force the FDA in the right direction of banning BPA. Until then, there are ways to take precautions for yourself and family by avoiding BPA exposure as much as possible.

How does BPA get into my body?

In 2003-2004, a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found detectable levels of BPA in 93% urine samples of people six years and older in the United States. The USFDA estimates typical, daily BPA consumption to be around 0.1 micrograms per kilogram of body weight. The primary source of exposure for humans is ingesting BPA that has leached from plastics in the environment and from food/beverage containers.

How can I reduce my exposure to BPA?

BPA is practically unavoidable, as it is found in so many products we encounter on a daily basis. However, there are some measures you can take to reduce your exposure. Here are some of the best ways to avoid harmful levels of BPA:

  • The highest level of BPA exposure typically comes from canned foods, especially acidic foods such as tomatoes, fruits. So, avoid them when possible as BPA may be used in can linings, or look for brands that use BPA-free lining (e.g. Eden Foods).
  • Of products that may leach BPA, canned pastas and soups contain the highest levels.
  • Choose safer plastics such as #1 (PETE), #2 (HDPE), #4 (LDPE), #5 (PP) or glass containers.
  • Avoid #7 plastics whenever possible.
  • Avoid cheap reusables.
  • Do not microwave food or beverages in plastic.
  • Do not microwave or heat plastic cling wraps.
  • Do not put plastics in the dishwasher.
  • Do not use hard polycarbonate plastics for warm or hot liquids.
  • For hot food or liquids, choose glass, porcelain and stainless steel containers from reputable brands.
  • Look for certified phthalate-free or BPA-free products, backed by independent test results.
  • If a BPA-free alternative is not available, or if you are unsure about the safety of a container you own, look for independent lab test results to ensure little-to-no leaching.

(Source: Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units & DLD)

I've heard rumors about reusable bottles containing BPA. Is this true?

This completely depends on the bottle. A lot of cheap reusable bottles flooding the market do pose a risk. The testing and manufacturing processes required to make a safe, high-quality bottle are expensive, so there is a strong correlation between price and safety. In general, the cheaper the bottle, the greater the chance it will leach toxins, including BPA or heavy metals.

Before grabbing a bottle at the checkout line, check to see if it’s made from one of the high-quality manufacturers, and flip it upside down and look at the plastic number. If it's #7, put it down - it likely contains BPA. You are better off sticking with high-quality bottles made from stainless steel, aluminum with BPA-free lining and bottles made from safe plastics. If it's not BPA-free, be sure to get test results from the manufacturer.

Nalgene's bottles are commonly perceived as synonymous with polycarbonate. However, Nalgene offers a wide variety of water bottles made from many different kinds of materials. Including HDPE, LDPE and PET. They are also introducing bottles made from Triton - a plastic with similar features (e.g. hard, clear) but no BPA. SIGG recently came under scrutiny when the company admitted its former liners (used prior to August 2008) contained trace amounts of BPA. While test results showed no detectable leaching at sensitivity levels of 2ppb, the old liner does contain BPA. For more information, see our SIGG FAQ.

If BPA is present in a material, does that mean it will leach?

Not necessarily. Several factors determine whether BPA will actually leach from material produced with BPA. These include the quality of the material and polymerization process, exposure to heat and age of the material. A good rule of thumb to remember: buy high-quality bottles from trusted brands that provide test results showing their products do not leach BPA.

Here's a hand-picked selection of resources for more information on BPA: