In a significant move to protect consumer health, the European Commission’s proposal to ban bisphenol A (BPA) and other harmful bisphenols in food contact materials has been officially adopted as EU law. This regulation marks a culmination of years of rigorous research and legislative action aimed at reducing exposure to hazardous chemicals.
What is BPA and Why is it Harmful?
BPA, a chemical widely used in the production of food contact materials such as coatings in metal cans, reusable plastic bottles, and kitchenware, has been under scrutiny for its potential to disrupt the endocrine system and impact the immune system. Recent studies have shown that BPA migrates in trace amounts into food and beverages, and concerningly, it was detected in 92% of adults tested across 11 European countries under the HORIZON 2020 research initiative. Levels exceeded safety thresholds set by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), raising alarms about its risks to human health.
Years of Regulatory Action
Efforts to regulate BPA began as early as 2007 with EFSA’s first risk assessment. Since then, the EU has implemented incremental restrictions, including:
A 2023 EFSA opinion significantly lowered the tolerable daily intake for BPA to 0.2 nanograms/kg of body weight, prompting the Commission to propose a comprehensive ban in July 2023.
Details of the Ban
The new regulation prohibits BPA in food packaging, reusable plastic bottles, kitchenware, and coatings for metal cans. Limited exceptions will apply in cases where no safe alternatives exist, such as in plastic filtration membranes used for ensuring the microbiological safety of specific foods. Transition periods will help industries adapt and avoid disruptions in the food supply chain.
Looking Ahead: Revising Food Contact Materials Legislation
The BPA ban is part of broader efforts to enhance consumer protection. The EU is working on revising its food contact materials legislation to harmonize rules across various materials like metal, ceramics, and glass. The revised framework aims to simplify compliance for businesses while encouraging sustainable and innovative solutions in food packaging.
This landmark ban on BPA signifies a major step forward in ensuring safer food contact materials for European consumers and reflects the EU’s commitment to reducing exposure to hazardous chemicals.