Recently, the health risks associated with Bisphenol A (BPA) have once again garnered widespread public attention. As a professional testing organization, CIRS Testing is here to provide an in-depth interpretation of the potential hazards of BPA and how to effectively prevent exposure in daily life based on our research practices and updates on relevant regulations.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widely used chemical, primarily in the production of polycarbonate (PC) and epoxy resins. Polycarbonates are commonly used in the manufacture of food and beverage containers such as plastic cups and utensils, microwave dishes, and water dispenser tanks; epoxy resins are used in the inner coatings of food and beverage cans, as well as protective coatings for residential drinking water tanks. Additionally, BPA is found in thermal paper products, commonly used for supermarket receipts, delivery notes, and movie ticket stubs.

However, the potential health risks of BPA have increasingly come under scientific scrutiny. Studies have shown that BPA's chemical structure is similar to natural estrogen and may enter the human body through skin contact, hand-to-mouth contact, or dietary intake, disrupting hormonal balance and affecting the normal development of the reproductive and nervous systems. Infants, pregnant women, and adolescents, who are in critical periods of growth, are particularly sensitive to the toxicity of BPA, and exposure can severely impact their health.

Potential Health Risks of Bisphenol A

(1) Abnormal Development of Reproductive and Nervous Systems

BPA can lead to a range of health issues, including early puberty, gonadal dysfunction, fetal abnormalities, neurological disorders, and obesity. Although there is no direct evidence that daily exposure to BPA significantly affects reproductive development or is carcinogenic, its potential risks should not be ignored.

(2) Everyday Exposure Risks

In everyday life, thermal paper products such as shopping receipts and delivery notes are ubiquitous. These papers often contain a BPA coating for color development. Health authorities in Guangdong have issued warnings that BPA from receipts can enter the body through skin contact, advising the public to minimize contact, especially preventing infants from touching these receipts.

International Regulatory Updates: EU Officially Bans BPA in Food Contact Materials

On December 19, 2024, the European Commission officially enacted a ban on the use of Bisphenol A (BPA) in food contact materials. This ban means that BPA will no longer be allowed in products that come into contact with food or beverages, including metal cans, plastic containers, and coatings and adhesives on other kitchenware. The ban includes an 18-month transition period, except where no alternatives are available or in specific use cases.

This EU measure is based on multiple scientific studies and assessments. For instance, the EU-funded "Horizon 2020" research project detected BPA in the urine of 92% of adult participants from 11 European countries, exceeding the safety threshold set by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). In 2023, EFSA further reduced the tolerable daily intake (TDI) of BPA to just 0.2 ng/kg/day, concluding that current levels of BPA exposure pose a risk to consumers of all ages.

CIRS Testing's Professional Advice: How to Reduce Daily BPA Exposure?

(1) Reduce the Use of BPA-Containing Products

Check the recycling symbols on the bottom of plastic products and avoid those marked with "7" or "PC," which may contain BPA.

Avoid heating food in plastic containers, especially in microwaves, as high temperatures can accelerate the release of BPA.

Opt for glass, stainless steel, or ceramic products for storing food and drinking water instead of polycarbonate plastics.

(2) Proper Handling of Shopping Receipts

Opt for electronic receipts at supermarkets and restaurants to avoid frequent contact with thermal receipts.

Avoid touching receipts with wet or greasy hands.

Wash hands immediately after handling receipts and before touching food.

Keep infants from touching receipts.

(3) Pay Attention to Product Labels

Look for products labeled "BPA-free."

Choose safer plastic materials like PPSU and PP, especially for products like baby bottles.

CIRS Testing Reminder

While the potential risks of BPA cannot be overlooked, effective prevention measures and sensible usage habits can significantly reduce its impact on health. We urge consumers to remain rational and adopt scientific preventive measures to safeguard their health. As a professional testing organization, CIRS Testing is committed to providing comprehensive testing services for consumers and businesses. We can accurately detect the BPA content in various products, helping consumers identify potential health risks. We will also continue to monitor scientific research progress and international regulatory updates to provide the public with scientific and authoritative health advice.

If you need any assistance or have any questions, please get in touch with us via test@cirs-group.com.