BPA AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Dr. Saima Aftab

WHAT IS BPA?

 BPA stands for bisphenol A, an industrial chemical commonly found in hard

plastics and epoxy resins.
 A host of studies have shown that BPA can harm the reproductive and
general well-being of some small mammals and other vertebrate animals.
Its effect on human health remains unclear.
 First synthesized in 1891, BPA has been used in products that are
increasingly ubiquitous in homes since 1957.
 A 2003 and 2004 survey by the United States Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC) found detectable levels of BPA in the urine of 93% of
more than 2,500 Americans six years and older.
SOURCES OF BPA
WHERE IS BPA FOUND?

 BPA is in water bottles, food packaging, and storage containers.

 It is also in the epoxy resin that is part of the protective internal coating of
many food cans, and it’s found in water supply lines and bottle tops, as well.
 Eyeglass frames, toys, plastic eating utensils, electronics equipment, helmets
and other sports protective equipment, resin-based dental sealants, compact
discs, and some medical devices contain BPA.
 Because it coats thermal papers, BPA can also be found in receipts from ATMs
and cash registers.
EFFECTS OF BPA
 IS BPA DANGEROUS?
 BPA is an “endocrine disruptor.” This means that it disturbs the way that hormones regulate
reproductive health in both males and females.
 HOW TO AVOID BPA IN FOOD CONTAINERS
 High temperatures accelerate BPA’s migration from plastics into food and liquid.
Don’t microwave food or beverages in plastic containers. Use glass or porcelain
containers and plates instead.
 If you are going to use a plastic container or bottle, look for a prominent number on
the bottom of the item. Those numbers are recycling codes. Containers showing a
"3" or a "7" were probably made with BPA.
 Canned foods are a primary vector through which BPA enters human bodies. Try to
reduce your consumption of canned foods. If you must use them, rinse them first.
 Store your food in glass, porcelain, or steel containers. Take special care to do this if
the food you are storing is still hot.
 Make sure that all baby bottles are BPA-free.