Bisphenol A and plasticisers in packaging

In short: Bisphenol A and phthalates are plastic additives that can migrate in small amounts into food and act hormone-like; stricter limits and bans increasingly restrict them.

In more detail: Plastics, can coatings and packaging contain additives that can dissolve and pass into food (migration). Two groups are in focus: bisphenols and phthalates (plasticisers). This is general information and does not replace medical advice. With complaints, illnesses, pregnancy or medication, ask a doctor or pharmacist.

In Depth

Bisphenol A (BPA)

BPA is used to make polycarbonate (hard transparent plastics) and epoxy resins (inner coating of cans, beverage cans). It can act hormone-like. EFSA has considerably lowered the tolerable daily intake; the EU banned BPA in baby bottles and increasingly restricts bisphenols in food-contact materials. Substitutes (BPS, BPF) are also examined. Till receipts (thermal paper) partly contained bisphenols; alternatives are in use.

Phthalates (plasticisers)

They make plastics (especially PVC) soft: films, floor coverings, lid seals, toys, cables. Some are toxic to reproduction and banned or limited in many uses (children’s toys, cosmetics). They pass mainly into fatty foods.

Everyday life: reducing intake

• Buy fresh and with little packaging, vary canned goods.
• Do not heat or store hot or fatty food in plastic; use glass, stainless steel, ceramic.
• Plastic tableware not in microwave and dishwasher unless expressly suitable; replace scratched plastic containers.
• Mind symbols: the glass-and-fork sign means food-safe; recycling numbers (3 = PVC, 7 = other plastics incl. polycarbonate) give hints.
• Buy toys and baby products with test marks.
• Wash hands after thermal paper if you handle much of it.

Assessment

Intake via food is for most people below guide values, but uncertainties about mixture effects and long-term effects remain; authorities update limits. The aim is not fear but simple habits and avoiding unnecessary plastic contact. Information is available from the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), EFSA and the Federal Environment Agency.

See also: Microplastics in cosmetics, E numbers, Preservatives