BPALevels In Food Under Scrutiny

Four years after first showing up in a laboratory test result, BPA is still under scrutiny by the international scientific community. In the absence of newer research to the contrary, there are still some concerns that the human reproductive system could be adversely affected, even though the initial studies showed that BPA levels were low. At the time, the concerns were such that action was taken not so much from a safety perspective, but rather to assure the consumer that their feedback was considered important, and that if necessary, it would be acted on. Research is still on-going and this gives consumers confidence that their concerns are treated seriously.

In terms of its use in plastic packaging for the general community, safe levels of BPA have been established at 0.05 mg per kilogram per body weight per day. This margin is known as the Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI) which translates to the amount of substance in food that can be taken per day without risking one’s health. It is necessary to use BPA in some food packaging to prevent contamination and extend shelf life, so having a measurable TDI gives consumer's confidence in the products they are buying.

No recent studies have been performed for a revision of the TDI since an international panel of experts from the World Health Organization found out that BPA does not accumulate in the body but is eliminated through the urine. However, consumer concerns continued through 2008 into 2010 in regard to the use of BPA in products being used by babies and young children. The Canadian Government responded to these concerns by declaring BPA a toxic substance under their environmental protection legislation, and this action prompted other governments, including those of Australia and New Zealand, to commence a voluntary phasing out of BPA in plastic baby bottles, purely in response to consumer demand.

So far, there are no indications that the usage of BPA in plastic bags poses health hazards to members of the community. In fact, Food Standards Australia New Zealand conducted an analytical survey of BPA levels in food and drinks in Australia, including foods packaged in polycarbonate plastics, steel cans with epoxy lining and glass jars with metal lids. The survey showed that there are insignificant quantities of BPA in the few samples that contained them. BPA is the subject of ongoing research, both here in Australia and overseas, and the FSANZ constantly monitor the situation to see if any changes are needed to the TDI. We consumers are assured that our food packaging are always safe.

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BPA in food packaging was a concern for consumers but it has been addressed by companies such as Dabron Packaging http://www.dabron.com.au/ . However, there is no such restriction on plastic bags Brisbane.

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