European Commission Proposes Ban on Use of Bisphenol A in Food Contact Materials

BPA, a chemical traditionally used in manufacturing various food contact materials such as epoxy resins for coatings and certain plastics, has been under scrutiny due to its ability to migrate into food, potentially leading to consumer exposure. Following extensive review and an updated opinion by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in 2023, which highlighted BPA's reproductive, developmental, metabolic, and immune system effects, the Commission has decided to update its authorization for use in food contact materials. The new tolerable daily intake (TDI) set by EFSA is a stark 20,000 times lower than the previous temporary TDI, indicating a significant health concern for all population groups from dietary BPA exposure.

Ban of Bisphenol A

To combat this, the draft regulation strictly prohibits the use of BPA in the manufacture of food contact plastics, varnishes, coatings, printing inks, adhesives, ion-exchange resins, and rubbers. However, exceptions are provided for critical food contact applications where no feasible alternatives exist, such as specific uses of polysulfone resins in food processing and BADGE-based heavy-duty varnishes and coatings, provided they meet stringent migration limits and ensure consumer safety.

Additionally, the Commission addresses the challenge of finding suitable replacements for BPA in food contact materials, emphasizing the need for a risk assessment and authorisation process for any bisphenols and derivatives used as replacements. This includes substances with harmonized classifications for their hazardous properties, reflecting the Commission's commitment to preventing any potential health risks associated with these chemicals.

Substitution of Bisphenol A in Food Contact Materials

Recognising the complexity of transitioning away from BPA, the draft regulation outlines specific transitional provisions, allowing for an 18-month grace period for certain final food contact articles complying with previous rules to be placed on the market. For more challenging applications, such as packaging for high-acidity foods or professional food production equipment components, an extended 36-month transition period is granted.

The draft regulation also mandates monitoring and reporting by manufacturers for unintentional BPA presence, particularly in recycled paper and board food contact materials, underscoring the importance of maintaining low contamination levels and ensuring food safety in a circular economy.

The draft regulation is not the final position of the Commission and will continue on the policy making process before it is enacted into law.