You have probably heard about BPA (bisphenol A) and how some believe it is bad for our health. BPA is an industrial chemical used to make plastics. In 2002 alone, there was 2.8 million tons of BPA produced, so there is a lot of it out there. You have probably heard experts warn not to reuse your water bottles, choose BPA-free plastic baby bottles, don’t microwave polycarbonate plastic food containers (use glass instead), and just plain avoid any plastic that has the No. 7 recycling label because it is made with BPA.
Right now, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said that there is no immediate health risk from exposure to BPA that we may get from plastics. However, the FDA also admits that more testing needs to be done as some research has shown BPA could be linked to problems with the reproductive system, an increased risk of cancer, and diabetes. The FDA is also reviewing the acceptable safety limit of BPA in a product.
But, can BPA really be easily avoided? Consumer Reports magazine, owned by Consumer Union, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to make the marketplace safe for the consumer, has published an article saying it isn’t. A recent study of 19 different products showed that BPA may be found in certain items, including canned goods. While there was little to no BPA found in juice boxes, higher levels were found in canned goods such as Progresso vegetable soup and Del Monte green beans.
The Consumer Reports director of technical policy Urvashi Rangan told “Good Morning America” that BPA was “actually in the food itself.” She went on to say that while BPA was found in almost all canned goods, she was most surprised at the varying levels.
The Grocery Manufacturing Association has issued a statement saying consumers should “not be alarmed” and they should be scared away by one report when agencies such as the FDA has said there is no need for concern. Campbell Soup Co. said that while it feels the amount of BPA in its canned goods is safe, it is looking for alternatives.
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