No health risk from BPA in packaging

Food regulators have found no major health risks associated with the use of Bisphenol A (BPA) in food packaging and closures according to the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC).

Responding to research on BPA levels in foods and baby products by consumer group Choice, the AFGC said that the food authorities, including Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ), maintain that levels of exposure to BPA are safe and don’t pose a significant health risk.

AFGC Deputy Chief Executive Dr Geoffrey Annison noted that the findings found that none of the 38 canned foods tested contained BPA levels above the European Union’s limit of 660 parts per billions (ppb).

“There’s no scientific evidence internationally that has shown any dangers to humans from BPA in canned products or bottles,” Dr Annison said.

FSANZ’s Chief Scientist Paul Brent has said that the regulator was working closely with industry in Australia after having meetings with AFGC and the Packaging Council of Australia as well as various manufacturers of canned foods and infant formula.

Following consultation with industry, Parliamentary Secretary for Health Mark Butler had announced a voluntary phase-out by major retailers and manufacturers of baby bottles containing BPA which began on 1 July, following some level of public concern relating to BPA.

“Australian manufacturers have acknowledged this level of consumer concern and proactively undertaken to phase out baby bottles containing BPA,” Dr Annison said.

BPA-free products, including baby food cans will be available within 12 months, with metal closures on glass jars and bottles to follow soon afterwards.