The chemical bisphenol A is commonly called BPA.The chemical is increasingly thought to mimic human hormones, which direct body processes. Studies have linked exposure to bisphenol A in lab animals to a number of problems, from obesity to diabetes, early onset puberty, impaired immune function and even breast cancer.
A report is currently being finalized by the Department of Health and Human Services' National Toxicology Program on bisphenol A, with the goal of informing regulators who will likely soon decide whether the chemical warrants increased restrictions.
It was first made in 1891, and was investigated for use as a replacement for estrogen. It is used in the production of epoxy resins and polycarbonate plastics (often identified by the recycling number 7), which find service in a variety of applications, especially food and drink packaging. These include:
Common Metal Coatings Liners of food cans
Dental Fillings
Baby Bottles
Water Coolers and BottlesTableware and Food Storage ContainersMedical DevicesConsumer Items Sunglasses CDs and DVDs Electronic equipment Automobile parts Sports equipment
Gov. Panel Confirms Health Risk from Bisphenol-A
affects the development of the mammary glands
accelerates puberty in females
affects the reproductive health of those who work with the chemical
A report is currently being finalized by the Department of Health and Human Services' National Toxicology Program on bisphenol A, with the goal of informing regulators who will likely soon decide whether the chemical warrants increased restrictions.
It was first made in 1891, and was investigated for use as a replacement for estrogen. It is used in the production of epoxy resins and polycarbonate plastics (often identified by the recycling number 7), which find service in a variety of applications, especially food and drink packaging. These include:
Common Metal Coatings Liners of food cans
Dental Fillings
Baby Bottles
Water Coolers and BottlesTableware and Food Storage ContainersMedical DevicesConsumer Items Sunglasses CDs and DVDs Electronic equipment Automobile parts Sports equipment
Gov. Panel Confirms Health Risk from Bisphenol-A