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Is the Lining of Wine Boxes Toxic?

Flexible packaging, such as the aluminum-like bag lining inside boxes of wine, has been under scrutiny because of the health dangers associated with bisphenol A or BPA, a chemical preservative used in packaging. However, wine box linings have not been directly implicated as containing BPA.

  1. Lining Material

    • The box of wine you buy at the grocery store or state store is lined with a metalized, three-layer laminated barrier, typically in three-liter and five-liter quantities. This bladder is made of polyethylene, which is an alternative to BPA and has not been shown to have the same health risks. BPA may be present in the epoxy lining of wine vats.

    Shelf Life

    • The silvery paper bag that seals the wine in the box has become popular because of the extended shelf life of the wine. A box of wine keeps wine fresh for up to six weeks. A three-liter box is equivalent to four bottles of wine and retails for anywhere from $10 to $36.

    Considerations

    • A box of wine is easy to transport, open and serve. Box wine quality has been increasing and the packaging will likely become more prevalent. Studies into the health risks of polyethylene continue but are, so far, inconclusive.

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