BPA

Definition

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic compound used in the manufacturing of some plastics. It may also be found in the epoxy resin coatings inside food and beverage cans. Small amounts of BPA can transfer into the foods and liquids contained within such containers.

Health considerations

Animal studies have shown multiple concerns associated with BPA exposure, including: lowering the age of puberty onset, disruption of sexual organ development, and increased cancer risk. BPA can act in a similar manner to estrogen within the body, and can bind to the estradiol receptor. There are also associations between BPA and impaired thyroid function, negative effects during pregnancy, impaired fetal growth, and increased aggressive and reactive behaviors in boys exposed in utero. BPA has also been associated with increases in body fat and, in animals, increased abdominal fat and impaired glucose tolerance. 

Keep in mind

The EU and Canada ban the use of BPA in baby bottles; the US FDA removed it from use following consumer demand. 

May be found in

Packaged food, including plastics packaging; tins lined with plastic containing BPA; other tin cans, including soft drink cans.

References

Nature
Journal of Health Science
CHIMIA International Journal for Chemistry
Thyroid.
Environmental Health Perspectives
Environmental Health Perspectives Children’s Health Collection 2012
Environmental Health Perspectives 2

Alternative Spellings and Names

Bisphenol-A, Bisphenol A