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Concerned about Bisphenol A (BPA)

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a very common industrial chemical used in the manufacture of numerous plastic products. It helps make plastics strong and shatterproof, resistant to temperature changes, acids and oils. Recent concerns about the safety of BPA are valid since laboratory testing found that BPA may affect reproduction and development in animals by mimicking the effects of the female hormone oestrogen. BPA exposure has also been linked to cancers of the tonsils, spleen, marrow, breast and lymph nodes.

Where is it found?

  • In epoxy resins, which are used to coat food cans, used in adhesives, paints and nail polish and in dentistry.
  • In polycarbonate plastics such as those used as food and drink containers, disposable cutlery, microwave ovenware, baby bottles, children’s toys including teethers.
  • As a stabiliser in PVC and so in water supply pipes, linings of polypropylene water tanks.
  • Also in pesticides, floorings, flame retardant, brake fluid.

Ho w to limit your exposure to BPA:

  • Buy unpackaged, fresh, local fruit and vegies as often as possible and/or grow your own;
  • Buy foods such as pureed tomatoes, olives, pickles, sauces etc in glass rather than cans or plastic;
  • Don't buy prewrapped meats, cheeses etc from the supermarket or deli which are usually wrapped in PVC plastic. (Some plastic wraps designed for home use are actually polyethylene, not PVC. Polyethylene food wrap does not “cling” as well as PVC);
  • Use safe, biodegradable food wrap instead;
  • Don't use the microwave to reheat or cook foods in plastic containers;
  • Never use cling wrap in the microwave. “Microwave Safe” or a “Microwavable” label on a plastic container only means that it shouldn’t melt, crack or fall apart when used in the microwave. It doesn’t mean that it is food safe and is no guarantee that the containers don’t leach chemicals into foods when heated;
  • Avoid storing food in plastic containers, especially hot food;
  • Avoid all plastics labelled PC (Polycarbonate), No. 3 (PVC), 6 (polystyrene) or 7 (other plastics). The safest plastics for storing food or liquid in are labelled No. 4 (HDPE) or No. 5 (Polypropylene or PP);
  • Ask your dentist to use dental sealants and composite fillings which do not contain BPA. (Many dental sealants and composites actually contain monomers derived from BPA, bisGMA and bisDMA so don’t be fooled by a dentist who tells you that there is no BPA in these products)

Dental materials that do not contain BPA or its derivatives are available** but most dentists are resistant to change the way they do things. 

Like most proponents of BPA, the dental industry argues that the amount of BPA in their products is so small that it is hardly worth worrying about. Scientists now know that hormones and chemicals with hormone-like actions, actually operate at extremely low concentrations.

And a low dose can sometimes be more harmful than a high dose (“low dose effect”). Dental sealants are traditionally placed in children’s mouths, from 6 to 16 year olds. This is a sensitive time for growth and development of the reproductive system and so BPA containing products should not be used.

If your dentist is not interested in using an alternative product, then ask the dentist to thoroughly wash the sealant (once it has set) and allow your child to rinse thoroughly with water. It is important that your child does not swallow during the procedure.  BPA exposure is at its peak immediately after placement of the sealant. Failure to fully set the sealant will result in greater exposure.

 **Biodent supply bisGMA free composites called Diamond Crown and DiamondLite. Their flowable composite, DiamondLink can be used as a pit and fissure sealant and for bonding crowns and veneers.

For the dental industry's view on this subject, click here. 

Limit your baby's exposure to BPA 

Babies and children are the most vulnerable to even low doses of BPA, so limit their exposure by breastfeeding exclusively for the first 6 months. There is no need for infant formula or bottles. If you have no choice but to bottle feed, then use glass bottles or “Bisphenol A - free” bottles. Make sure the teats are made from silicon, which is more durable and chemically inert than other materials.

If your baby has a dummy, again this is not ideal, but make sure it is also made from silicon, for the same reasons. When it comes to sippy cups, they should also be “Bisphenol A-free”. Most European brands of cups, bottles and teethers are usually safe as the Europeans became aware of the dangers of Bisphenol A years ago and have banned it from baby products.

Don’t feed your baby canned food. Glass is safer.