Bisphenol A (BPA) in Consumer Products

Read about safety concerns and federal recommendations regarding Bisphenol A (BPA) in consumer products.

BPA is a chemical used primarily in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. This includes consumer products like plastic water bottles, canned foods, medical devices, and baby bottles.

While BPA has low acute toxicity, concern has grown that it may leach from products into consumables creating adverse health effects in the endocrine system.

Recommendations

Read the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Message for Consumers.

To limit BPA exposure:

• Select BPA-free products. Polycarbonate containers containing BPA usually have a #7 on the bottom.
• Use glass, porcelain, or stainless steel containers, particularly for hot food or liquids.
• Don’t microwave polycarbonate plastic food containers. Over time, they break down from use at high temperatures.
• Reduce your use of canned foods.

Learn more

While studies regarding BPA health effects remain inconclusive, it's important to learn about BPA to make informed decisions. Also see:

• National Toxicology Program Finalizes Report on Bisphenol A, National Institutes of Health
• National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals – Spotlight on Bisphenol A (PDF), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
• Questions and Answers about the National Toxicology Program's Evaluation of Bisphenol A, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Safety

Public Health Information

• BPA in Consumer Products
• Cell Phone Safety
• Flu Information
• Literature Building Study
• West Nile Virus Information