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Does BPA-Free Mean It’s Safe?

You may have seen BPA-free on many packages in the store over the last few years, but still wonder does BPA-free mean it’s actually safe. The short answer is no. Here is why:

You may already know this but plastics are made from refined crude oil… like the stuff that pours out of oil tankers that crash off what feels like every coast in the world now. Some of these plastics contain a chemical called Bisphenol-A (BPA), which helps make the plastic more durable and flexible.

While plastic has been a complete game-changer to how we produce and manufacture most products in the world, it also creates a significant risk to the planet and our health, especially when it comes in contact with our food.

What does BPA-free actually mean?

In short, BPA-free means a product does not use the organic compound Bisphenol A in its construction. It doesn’t however mean that it’s Bisphenol free.

Even plastics that are labeled BPA-free are not always safe. Manufacturers can still fall under the BPA-free umbrella yet use bisphenol F (BPF), bisphenol S (BPS), and bisphenol AF (BPAF).

Does BPA-Free Mean It’s Safe?

Even with the push for BPA-free products, studies show that 75% of Americans test positive for BPF and BPS in their systems, and other studies have shown that BPS and BPF share similar endocrine-disrupting effects to that of BPA.

Moreover, many additional studies have shown correlations between BP chemical exposure and obesity (childhood and adult), breast cancer, and developmental issues in children. Not to mention the five grams of plastic each week the average human ingests.

What Does BPA Do To The Body?

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can disrupt many hormonal pathways throughout the body leading to metabolic, developmental, fertility, and immune system issues, among others. This is believed to occur because EDCs interfere with the synthesis, action, and metabolism of hormones. While the research is clear about the harmful effects BPA can have on the body, more research needs to be done to understand the true impact other BP’s are having on the human body.

Does BPA-free plastic still leach?

Yes, BPA-free plastics can still leach. Especially those that are made with regrettable alternatives like bisphenol F (BPF), bisphenol S (BPS), and bisphenol AF (BPAF).

What Products Have BPA?

Unfortunately, BPA can be found in many common canned, paper, and plastic products, so there isn’t a way to make an exact list, but below you will find a quick reference list of items that often contain high levels of BPA:

  • Plastic Containers
  • Canned Food
  • Plastic Water Bottles
  • Menstrual Products
  • Dental Filling Sealants
  • Thermal Printer Receipts
  • Personal Care Products
  • Household Electronics
  • Lenses In Glasses
  • Athletic Wear, especially those for women like sports bras and leggings.

How Do I Avoid Bisphenol?

The first step is to look for products that aren’t made with plastic. For example, it’s easy to swap out your plastic containers for glass. Personally, I use glass storage containers or wax wraps, metal or glass water bottles, reusable glass or silicon straws, and mason jars. I don’t miss any of my plastic products at all.

Look for food and personal care products, like canned food, that list BPA-free. You can learn more about BPA and canned food here.

Swap out plastic for platinum silicone products when it comes to your kid’s lunch box.

Watch out for to-go packages from restaurants. Never reheat your food in those plastic or styrofoam containers and remove your food from them when you get home.

For even more BPA-free ideas, follow us on TikTok

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