EUROPE – The European Commission has officially banned Bisphenol A (BPA) in food-contact materials, including reusable plastic bottles, coatings for metal cans, and water distribution coolers.
This decision stems from concerns about BPA’s potential health impacts, particularly its harmful effects on the immune system.
Previously, BPA had already been prohibited in baby bottles and food-contact materials designed for young children.
Following the latest scientific assessment from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which highlighted BPA’s potential immune system risks, a public consultation was held among EU Member States.
This process culminated in a positive vote on the ban last summer, followed by a scrutiny period in the Council and Parliament.
Scope and implementation
As of December 19, 2024, the use of BPA in food or drink-contact products is forbidden. The ban also extends to other bisphenols identified as harmful to the reproductive and endocrine systems.
Most affected products will undergo an 18-month phase-out period, with limited exceptions for cases where no viable alternatives currently exist.
“Maintaining high food safety standards in the European Union and protecting citizens is one of the Commission’s highest priorities,” said Oliver Várhelyi, Commissioner for Health & Animal Welfare.
“Today’s ban, based on solid scientific advice, will protect our consumers against harmful chemicals where they can come into contact with their food and drink.”
BPA has long been a key component in polymer and resin production. Research by organizations across Europe and the US has explored its health impacts, leading to increasingly stringent regulations.
Speaking in late 2023, Lorena Pla Muñoz, a researcher at AIMPLAS’ Chromatography Laboratory, discussed the origins of BPA and potential alternatives.
She highlighted the ongoing work to better understand and mitigate BPA’s risks and offered insights into the evolving regulatory landscape.
Packaging and packaging waste regulation
In parallel, the European Council adopted the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) in December 2024.
The regulation includes mandatory targets to reduce substances of concern, such as PFAS, and introduces minimum recycled content thresholds—including a 65% minimum for single-use plastic bottles by 2040.
Additionally, the regulation sets reuse targets, requiring takeaway businesses to refill customers’ containers with pre-prepared food and beverages at no extra charge.
These measures reflect the EU’s commitment to sustainability and consumer health, signaling a significant shift in materials management and packaging practices across Europe.
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