BPA is one of the most studied endocrine-disrupting chemicals in the world. It mimics oestrogen and has been found in the urine of over 90% of the general population in studies across Europe and the US. The "BPA-Free" marketing response has largely replaced it with BPS and BPF — compounds with comparable or worse endocrine activity.
Where it's found
Internal lacquer lining of food and drink cans; some plastic food containers; polycarbonate bottles; thermal receipt paper (now largely replaced by BPS); dental composites and sealants; some medical equipment.
Routes of exposure
Ingestion via food contact migration (accelerated by heat and acidity); dermal from receipt paper; ingestion via dental composites releasing BPA into saliva.
Health concerns
Confirmed oestrogen mimic. Linked to reproductive harm, thyroid disruption, metabolic disruption, insulin resistance, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and developmental effects in foetuses and infants. Acidic foods in BPA-lined cans migrate BPA most aggressively. "BPA-Free" labelling does not address the replacement chemistry.
Evidence
IARC has not classified BPA, but WHO, EFSA and US NTP have all documented endocrine disruption. Detected in over 90% of population urine samples in biomonitoring studies. EU banned BPA from baby bottles 2011, from thermal receipt paper 2020. FDA maintains current dietary exposure is safe — disputed by independent researchers.
Who's most at risk
Infants and young children (highest exposure relative to body weight), pregnant women (placental transfer documented), people with metabolic or hormonal conditions.
Regulatory status
RegulationEU: banned in baby bottles (2011), thermal paper (2020), some food contact materials. EFSA lowering tolerable daily intake significantly. UK: follows pre-Brexit EU restrictions. US FDA: no general ban — contested position.
How to reduce your exposure
Avoid heating food in plastic containers. Choose glass, stainless steel, or ceramic for food storage. Buy products in glass jars over cans where possible. Wash hands after handling receipts. Ask dentist about ceramic restoration alternatives.
The nutrition connection
BPA's metabolic effects — insulin resistance and disruption of fat cell signalling — make it directly relevant to nutrition. Whole food diets reduce canned food exposure significantly. Fermented vegetables in glass jars are a practical BPA-free alternative to tinned.