BPA & bisphenol substitutes
Hardening agents in polycarbonate plastic and can linings that leach more when heated or scratched.
Also listed as: bisphenol A, BPS, BPF, polycarbonate, epoxy lining
What it is
Bisphenol A gives rigid plastics clarity and strength and forms the epoxy resin lining most metal food cans. Regulatory pressure pushed manufacturers toward BPS and BPF, which are structurally similar.
Why it's worth avoiding
Bisphenols leach into food and drink, accelerating with heat, acidity and abrasion. 'BPA-free' often means a substitute with comparable hormonal activity was used instead.
What the evidence says
EFSA cut its tolerable daily intake for BPA by a factor of 20,000 in 2023, concluding that current dietary exposure is above the safe level for all age groups. In-vitro studies show BPS and BPF have oestrogenic activity of the same order as BPA.
How it's regulated
BPA is banned in the EU in infant bottles, sippy cups and thermal paper, and the EU adopted a broad food-contact ban in 2024. France restricts BPA in all food packaging.
Label clues
- Recycling code 7 or 'PC' / polycarbonate
- 'BPA-free' with no statement about BPS/BPF
- Canned food with no 'non-epoxy lining' or 'BPA-NI' note
- Glossy thermal receipts (a significant dermal source)
Safer swaps
- Borosilicate glass and 18/8 stainless-steel bottles and containers
- Cartons, jars or dried/frozen alternatives to canned goods
- Brands stating a specific alternative lining (acrylic, oleoresin, polyester)
- Digital receipts instead of thermal paper
Where it shows up
Frequently asked
Is BPA-free plastic safe?+
Not automatically. If the replacement is BPS or BPF, the hormonal activity is broadly similar. Glass and stainless steel avoid the question entirely.
Does dishwashing make it worse?+
Yes. Heat and abrasion accelerate leaching from polycarbonate. Hand-wash old plastic, and replace anything cloudy, scratched or crazed.