What You Need to Know About BPA

Bisphenol A or BPA is an industrial chemical that has been in use since 1960 and is a major part of a certain type of plastic manufacturing industry. It is usually found in epoxy resins and polycarbonate plastics.  Plastic water bottles, compact discs and medical devices are made using polycarbonate plastics while epoxy resin is used for coating metal products like pipes for water supply, food cans, and bottle tops. BPA may also be found in composites and dental sealants.

Why BPA should be avoided

BPA can enter the human body from the containers and vessels containing the element. Research has shown that BPA exposure has serious effects on human behavior, brain, prostate glands of infants, children and even fetuses. It has also been suggested that BPA can cause an increase in blood pressure. A National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey was conducted in 2003-04 which showed the presence of BPA in 93% urine samples collected from 2517 people of varying age groups. The data showed the exposure to BPA in the US alone.

BPA present in consumer products

The main function of BPA is to make polycarbonate plastic stronger. It is shatter-resistant and durable as well as heat resistant, but when combined with BPA it becomes even stronger. Polycarbonate finds use in the manufacture of protective eye gears used in sports. These are extremely light weight and comfortable. Similarly, compact discs and DVDs are also made of polycarbonate to make them long lasting. Children’s toys like bicycle helmets and goggles are also made using BPA to make them stronger. Earlier, sippy cups and baby bottles made use of BPA in their containers, but after a regulation by the Food and Drug Administration or FDA, the practice has been stopped. BPA is also used in the manufacture of electronic equipment like game consoles, cell phones, computers, tablets, and laptops. It makes the screens tough and resistant to scratches. The chemical also finds use in the manufacture of paper receipts for sales because it allows inkless printing. The technology is not just cost-effective but also speeds up the process of billing. It does not, however, pose any risk to the people handling the bills.   

Avoiding BPA in food and household products

The health threats posed by BPA can be undermined by using less of the products that use the chemical. Concerned consumers should switch to fresh foods rather than frozen and canned ones. All food containers which are made of plastic should be replaced immediately with BPA-free ones. This includes all plastic food containers, baby bottles, storage containers, etc. Switching to glass bottles and containers or those marked BPA–free is the best option. Plastic containers that are marked with 1,2, and 5 do not contain BPA and can be safely used. Ideally, polycarbonate containers should be washed by hand rather than a dishwasher because scratching will only release BPA, which latches on to the food present inside the containers.  Avoid heating polycarbonate containers because they break down in high temperature in spite of being hard and durable.