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What Is BPA-Free Plastic?

Bisphenol A, or BPA, is chemical building block produced in large quantities to make polycarbonate plastic and resins such as dental sealants, CDs and DVDs. Some research, including a report from the National Toxicology Program, indicates the possible health risks from BPA in polycarbonate plastic. At the time of publication, the argument of whether BPA is harmful to your health or not remains controversial. However, you can opt to use BPA-free plastic as research studies continue.

  1. BPA History

    • The first reported synthesis of bisphenol A. was by Thomas Zincke of the University of Marburg in Germany in 1905. Although its physical properties were reported, Zincke did not propose any uses for BPA. In 1953, Dr. Hermann Schnell of Bayer in Germany and Dr. Dan Fox of General Electric in the United States used BPA as a material to develop polycarbonate plastic. This plastic is lightweight, durable, has optical clarity and is shatter-, electrical- and high-heat resistant, giving it a wide variety of applications. Commercial production for uses of polycarbonate plastic began in 1957 in the United States for dozens of industrial and consumer needs.

    BPA Plastics

    • BPA in polycarbonate plastics is found particularly in food and beverage containers such as tableware, water bottles and baby bottles and cups. Polycarbonate plastics may also be used in toys and other consumer goods such as eyeglass lenses, cell phones, electronics, household appliances and automobiles. Plastics that don't contain bisphenol A are usually marked as BPA-free and this marking is commonly found stamped or embossed on the bottom of plastic bottles and containers. Plastics marked with a No. 7 are usually polycarbonate and contain BPA.

    Harmful Effects

    • According to the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, some research has shown that BPA from plastic containers can seep into food or beverages, making BPA plastics highly toxic. The National Toxicology Program at the Department of Health and Human Services has "some concern" about the possible effects of BPA on fetuses, infants and children, whose systems are developing and are more prone to damage. Steps to reduce exposure to BPA in food and beverages by finding alternatives to BPA in containers are being taken by the Food and Drug Administration.

    Minimizing Exposure

    • Although the American Chemistry Council argues that BPA is not dangerous to your health, you can take action to minimize your exposure to BPA. One way is to use BPA-free products, which do not only refer to plastics, but most aluminum cans or bottles which are lined with BPA as well. If you're unsure if plastic is PBA-free or if aluminum containers are lined with BPA, use glass, porcelain or stainless steel containers instead. Although the American Chemistry Council says it's safe, the National Toxicology Program advises against washing polycarbonate plastics in the dishwasher using harsh detergents and microwaving polycarbonate plastics. This is because plastics can break down over time and possibly cause BPA to seep into food.

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