Tips to Reduce BPA Exposure
Overview
Everyday products like canned foods, plastic containers, and receipts can contain BPA, a chemical that can leach into food and drinks. Research shows that most people are exposed to BPA, often without realizing it. Simple steps, such as choosing BPA-free products and using glass or stainless steel containers, can help lower daily exposure to this chemical.
Reducing BPA in your life doesn’t need to be complicated. Reading labels, avoiding plastic where possible, and picking fresh or frozen foods instead of canned are all easy changes that make a big difference. These tips offer practical ways to limit contact with BPA at home and while shopping, helping families and individuals protect their health.
Understanding BPA and Its Health Risks
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in many everyday products. BPA is linked to health problems, including issues with hormones, the brain, and the reproductive system.
What Is Bisphenol A
Bisphenol A, or BPA, is a chemical used to make some types of plastics and resins. Manufacturers use it mainly in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Products that may contain BPA include water bottles, food storage containers, canned food linings, some receipts, and bottle tops.
BPA makes these items strong and clear. Epoxy resins with BPA coat the inside of metal cans to prevent rust. Because BPA is so common, most people come in contact with it daily. Researchers continue to study how BPA affects human health.
How BPA Exposure Occurs
People mainly take in BPA by eating or drinking foods stored in containers made with BPA. Heating or scratching these containers allows BPA to move into the food or drinks. People can also absorb BPA by touching receipts or using certain plastic products. Babies and children may face higher risks because their bodies are still developing and they often use bottles or cups that may contain BPA. Here is a table of common BPA sources:
| Source | Type |
|---|---|
| Canned foods | Metal can lining |
| Plastic bottles | Polycarbonate plastic |
| Food containers | Polycarbonate plastic |
| Receipts | Thermal paper |
| Baby bottles | Polycarbonate plastic |
Health Effects Linked to BPA
BPA can disrupt the body’s hormone system. Studies link BPA exposure to changes in brain development, especially in children and unborn babies. Some research connects BPA to higher risks of certain cancers, diabetes, and heart disease.
BPA might also affect the reproductive system, leading to infertility or problems with puberty. Health organizations and experts advise people to reduce contact with BPA, especially for children and pregnant women, who may be more sensitive to its effects.
Recognizing Common Sources of BPA
BPA, or bisphenol A, is often found in many everyday products. Knowing where it is can help people avoid it. Plastic containers made from polycarbonate plastics are a main source. These plastics are usually clear and hard. Items like water bottles and food storage boxes may be made with them.
Look for the recycling code on plastic products. Plastics marked with a #7 or sometimes #3 may contain BPA. Canned foods and beverages are another common source. The inside lining of many metal cans is made with BPA to prevent rust and keep food fresh. This can allow BPA to get into food and drinks.
A wide variety of food packaging, packaged foods, and processed foods can also contain BPA. The chemical may be in the coatings or containers used. Thermal paper receipts often used in stores can contain BPA. Handling these receipts may transfer BPA to the skin.
| Common Items With BPA | Examples |
|---|---|
| Plastic Containers | Water bottles, food boxes, some baby bottles |
| Metal Cans | Canned soups, vegetables, soda cans |
| Food Packaging | Packaged snacks, ready-to-eat meals |
| Thermal Paper | Grocery receipts, ATM receipts |
When people know these sources, they can make more informed choices to reduce BPA exposure.
Tips to Reduce BPA
BPA is found in plastics, food packaging, and some household items. Simple changes can lower daily exposure, especially for families and young children.
Home Tips
At home, use glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers for food and drinks instead of plastic. Store leftovers in BPA-free containers and avoid heating plastic in the microwave. Heat can cause BPA to leach into food. Canned foods often contain BPA in their linings. Choose fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables when possible.
Wrapping food in wax paper or aluminum foil is safer than using plastic wrap. Some receipts are coated with BPA. Wash hands after handling shopping receipts and avoid letting children play with them. Recycle or discard receipts quickly rather than storing them.
Infants and Babies
Babies are more vulnerable to BPA because their bodies are still developing. When possible, choose BPA-free bottles, sippy cups, and formula containers. Never heat baby food or milk in plastic containers, even if they say “microwave-safe.”
Use glass bottles or breast milk storage containers marked BPA-free. Breastfeeding, when possible, can also reduce BPA exposure. Keep pacifiers, teethers, and toys labeled BPA-free. Check product labels or contact manufacturers if unsure. Avoid giving babies food or drinks stored in plastic containers not meant for children.
Choosing Products
Families can avoid BPA by reading product labels. Many items clearly state “BPA-free” on their packaging, especially bottles, cups, and storage containers. Choose glass, porcelain, or stainless steel products for cooking and serving.
If you use plastics, avoid those marked with recycling codes 3 or 7, as these may contain BPA. Produce and dry foods are less likely to touch BPA. Picking these instead of pre-packaged canned foods lowers risk.
