Why Do Manufacturers Use Bisphenol A in Plastic?

Bisphenol A is used during the chemical synthesis of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Because BPA is clear and shatter-resistant, BPA-containing plastics are used to make water bottles, CDs, DVDs, sports equipment, medical equipment, and other products.

Where Do We Most Commonly Find Bisphenol A?

We are most commonly exposed to BPA through plastics, specifically polycarbonate plastics, which are used to make hard, clear products. Flexible PVC products (but not PVC pipes) sometimes contain BPA. The polymer coating inside most aluminum cans also contains BPA, as does carbonless copy paper and thermal paper, which is frequently used for printing receipts. People particularly fear BPA usage in food storage containers. According to the National Institutes of Health, food storage containers made of BPA-containing plastics may contaminate food, especially if the food is hot or the container is heated.

What Are the Negative Health Consequences of BPA?

While the National Toxicology Program (NTP) has voiced concern about BPA’s adverse effects on development in fetuses, infants and children, the NTP has stated that there is insufficient evidence to conclusively determine whether BPA adversely affects development or reproduction in humans. However, studies show that even low doses of BPA can harm animals. Other negative health effects of BPA have been suggested, including obesity, thyroid dysfunction, cancer and sexual difficulties. Research into these other negative health effects is inconclusive, but ongoing.

Who Should Be Most Concerned About BPA?

Although our research on BPA’s harmfulness is still inconclusive, BPA seems to most harm fetuses, infants and children. The Department of Health and Human Services provides an online list of recommendations to help limit the exposure of these age groups to BPA-containing plastics.