FDA: Chemical in Plastic Bottles Poses No Risk

A chemical used in the manufacture of baby bottles, plastic water containers, and other products does not pose a risk to consumers, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Friday.

People are usually exposed to Bisphenol A (also called BPA) through the diet -- including through leaching from the protective lining of plastic bottles and canned foods, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). After examining the relevant data in a Draft Assessment of Bisphenol A, the FDA concluded that "an adequate margin of safety exists" for Bisphenol A in current levels of exposure through bottles and other "food contact" uses. The New York Times reports that "Canada has announced its intention to ban the use of [BPA] in baby bottles, and lawmakers in the United States have introduced legislation to ban bisphenol in children's products," while at least 12 states are pondering passage of restrictions on the chemical's use.

In addition to food and beverage containers, BPA can also be found in products like compact discs, plastic eating utensils, and sports safety equipment. The FDA plans to hear additional testimony on BPA's safety in September.

• FDA's Draft Assessment of Bisphenol A [PDF file]
• Spotlight on Bisphenol A [PDF file] (CDC)
• N.Y. Times: Chemical Used in Plastic Bottles is Safe, F.D.A. Says
• WebMD: Bisphenol A Safe, Says FDA
• Defective and Dangerous Products (FindLaw)