Brussels, 19 December 2024
The Commission today adopted a ban on the use of bisphenol A (BPA) in Food Contact Materials, due to its potentially harmful effects on health. BPA is a chemical used in the manufacture of certain plastics and resins.
The ban means that BPA will not be allowed in products that come into contact with food or beverages, such as coating on metal cans, reusable plastic beverage bottles, water dispensing coolers, and other cookware. The ban follows a positive vote by EU member states earlier this year and a period of scrutiny by the Council and the European Parliament, and takes into account the latest Scientific evaluation of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). EFSA concluded, inter alia, that BPA had “potentially harmful effects on the immune system” and that the proposed ban followed public consultation and extensive discussions with all Member States.
BPA is already banned in the EU for infant bottles and similar products. For most products, there will be an 18-month phase-out period, with very limited exceptions where there is no alternative, to give industry time to adapt and avoid disruption to the food chain. The ban also includes other bisphenols that are harmful to reproduction and the endocrine system.
Olivér Várhelyi, Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, said: “Maintaining high standards of food safety in the European Union and protecting citizens is one of the Commission’s top priorities. Today’s ban, which is based on sound scientific advice, will protect our consumers from harmful chemicals when they may come into contact with their food and drink.”
Source – EU Commission