BPA Reportedly Found in Several Common Goods in Our Pantries

Bisphenol A, also known as BPA, is a chemical used as a plastic hardener that has been under increased scrutiny for potentially causing reproductive abnormalities and leading to increased risks of cancer and diabetes. BPA is a component of epoxy resin and the best chemical found to preserve foods. Previous reports have shown BPA in products including baby bottles, baby formula, and sippy cups. There is now evidence of the chemical in a variety of canned goods, including some goods which were labeled to contain no BPA. 

In 2008, the FDA released a report stating BPA in materials which came into contact with food was safe.  However, there is new research which may result in some changes to their stance or at least in regards to the level of BPA that is safe to consume. There have been studies which produced evidence showing the negative effects of BPA levels lower than the current FDA standards. The studies have also shown that BPA may leech into products held in containers made with BPA, regardless of whether the container was heated, and the substance seems to stay in a person’s system longer than once thought. 

For the newly released study, the Consumers Union, a non-profit organization, tested 19 name brand foods held in containers made of metal, paper, and plastic. The study found levels of BPA in nearly all canned goods they tested, including organic foods and even those labeled as BPA free. They found what they considered was high levels of BPA in Del Monte green beans, Progresso Vegetable Soup, and Campbell’s Chicken Soup.

Urvashi Ragan, director of technical policy at Consumer Reports, said their research has shown BPA isn’t only being found in containers products are packaged in, but also in the foods themselves. Ragan told Good Morning America, “We don’t think that consumers should be continually exposed to levels that are already causing harm in animals.” 

While the FDA currently has established BPA levels below 50 micrograms for each kilogram of body weight to be safe, the group is expected to be issuing new guidelines soon.  Several areas, including Connecticut, Minnesota, Chicago, Suffolk County, New York, and Canada already no longer allow the sale of baby bottles and sippy cups made with BPA and there have been several stores removing products containing BPA from their shelves. 

With evidence showing BPA may lead to increased risks of health issues, and the mounting evidence showing more foods than once thought contain BPA, there is growing concerns as to what level of BPA consumption is safe. While the FDA should have new guidelines based on more current research released soon, if you have concerns as to BPA consumption; play it safe and eat more fresh fruits and vegetables.