On the trail of the riddle: What is BPA?

BPA, or Bisphenol A, is a term that many of us have heard, but the precise understanding of it is often lacking. In this blog post, we take a closer look at BPA, its uses, potential risks, and how you can minimize your exposure to it.

What is BPA?

BPA is a chemical compound used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Polycarbonate is found in numerous everyday products such as water bottles, baby bottles, food packaging, eyeglass lenses and much more. Epoxy resins are often used for coating food and beverage cans.

Use of BPA:

Polycarbonate plastics: BPA is used in the production of robust and transparent plastics such as polycarbonate. These are often used for drinking bottles, tableware, glasses and other products.

Epoxy resins: BPA also serves as the main ingredient in epoxy resins, which are used in the coating of food and beverage cans. This coating protects the contents from corrosion and prevents the contents from taking on the flavor of the packaging. 

Potential risks of BPA:

Hormonal disorders: BPA is suspected of causing hormonal disorders because it is able to act like a hormone and interfere with the body's hormonal balance. 

Developmental and reproductive harm: Some studies suggest that BPA may be linked to developmental and reproductive harm, particularly in infants and young children.

Cardiovascular disease: There is evidence that BPA may be linked to cardiovascular disease, although further research is needed to better understand these links.

How can you minimize exposure to BPA?

Use BPA-free products: Make conscious choices about products labeled “BPA-free,” especially for items that come into contact with food and beverages.

Avoid using plastic in the microwave: Heat can cause BPA to be released from plastics. Therefore, avoid using plastics containing BPA in the microwave.

Choose glass or stainless steel: Prefer glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic for food and drink storage.

Read labels: Find out about the ingredients in products and consciously choose those that are BPA-free.

Finally, it is important to emphasize that research on the effects of BPA is still ongoing. However, it is advisable to take precautionary measures to minimize exposure to BPA, especially for products that are in direct contact with food.