Bisphenol A and Related Compounds: Food Exposure and Safety Considerations
Introduction
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic compound primarily used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, materials commonly found in food and beverage containers, including water bottles, can linings, and food storage containers. As consumer demand for safety in food packaging grows, concerns surrounding BPA's potential health effects—particularly as an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC)—have driven global regulatory actions and prompted the use of alternative bisphenol compounds, such as bisphenol AF (BPAF), bisphenol B (BP), bisphenol F (BPF), and bisphenol S (BPS).
Health Concerns and Scientific Background
BPA has been extensively studied for its potential effects on human health, particularly its ability to mimic estrogen and disrupt hormonal systems. Numerous studies have linked BPA exposure to adverse developmental, reproductive, neurological, and metabolic effects in animal models. Although human studies are less conclusive, the consistency of findings has led to increased regulatory scrutiny and precautionary measures worldwide. BPA analogues such as BPS and BPF are increasingly used as substitutes, often in materials labeled as “BPA-free.” However, emerging evidence suggests these compounds may exhibit similar or even stronger endocrine-disrupting properties, raising concerns about “regrettable substitution.”
Global Regulatory Landscape
The EU has established stringent regulations on BPA in food contact materials. In 2024, the EU formally banned BPA in all food contact materials, marking one of the most comprehensive restrictions globally4. Although specific limits for BPA analogues have yet to be enacted EU-wide, the potential risks of these substances are increasingly under review.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) currently permits BPA in many food contact applications, maintaining that low-level exposure is safe. However, BPA has been banned in baby bottles and sippy cups. Scientific and regulatory pressure continues to mount as new data emerge. No specific limits exist for BPA analogues, but interest in their safety assessment is growing.
Canada was the first country to classify BPA as toxic and banned its use in baby bottles. While its use in other food packaging is not outright banned, regulatory agencies continue to monitor both BPA and its analogues closely, with risk assessments ongoing. Countries including China, Japan, and South Korea regulate BPA in food contact materials with migration limits based on international standards. Japan uses a positive list system for approved substances in food contact materials, while China allows BPA with defined migration limits. BPA analogues are not currently subject to specific regulations but are increasingly part of surveillance programs.
Migration Studies and Consumer Exposure by Food
Migration of BPA and its analogues into food is affected by variables like temperature, food matrix composition (e.g., fat or acidity), and contact time. Numerous studies confirm that BPA migrates from containers into food, especially when subjected to heating or long-term storage. High-fat foods, acidic contents, and extended storage duration exacerbate leaching. Studies have detected BPA analogues such as BPS and BPF in canned foods, thermal receipts, and plastic containers labeled “BPA-free,” suggesting that substitutes may also pose health risks. Similarities in migration behavior and endocrine activity further highlight the need for comprehensive risk evaluations.
The Eurofins Advantage
In response to evolving regulatory demands and rising public health concerns, Eurofins Food Chemistry Testing Madison, Inc has developed advanced capabilities to detect and quantify BPA and its analogues at trace levels across a wide range of sample types.
We have expanded analyte and matrix scope of AOAC Official Method 2017.15, utilizing LC-MS/MS to allow selective and accurate determination of BPA and several key structural analogues, including BPAF, BPB, BPF, and BPS in high-fat, high-protein, and high-carbohydrate foods, infant formulas, dietary supplements, adult nutrition products, botanical extracts, beverages, and commonly used food packaging migration simulants. Depending on the sample type, limits of quantitation (LOQs) as low as 0.30 ppb for BPA, BPAF, and BPS, and 1.0 ppb for BPB and BPF, were successfully validated.
Reach out today to connect with an expert for comprehensive bisphenol testing and migration studies in your ingredients and finished products
Additional Resources
Prop 65 and Contaminants in Dietary Supplements FAQ
Webinar: Testing of Contaminants and Adulterants in Dietary Supplements
References
- Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 321/2011 of 1 April 2011 amending Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 as regards the restriction of use of Bisphenol A in plastic infant feeding bottles
- Commission Regulation (EU) 2018/213 of 12 February 2018 on the use of bisphenol A in varnishes and coatings intended to come into contact with food and amending Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 as regards the use of that substance in plastic food contact materials
- Re‐evaluation of the risks to public health related to the presence of bisphenol A (BPA) in foodstuffs. EFSA Journal 2023;21(4):6857
- Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/3190 of 19 December 2024 on the use of bisphenol A (BPA) and other bisphenols and bisphenol derivatives with harmonised classification for specific hazardous properties in certain materials and articles intended to meet food, amending Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 and repealing Regulation (EU) 2018/213
