BPA Is Not Just in Plastics

By , SparkPeople Blogger
For nearly two years we have heard about the dangers and potential health risks of plastic bottles due to a chemical known as bisphenol A or BPA. In response to concerns regarding water bottles, baby bottles and plastic storage containers, plastic guides for smart and safe usage began to pop up to help consumers make healthy lifestyle changes to reduce BPA exposure and risk.

Now that many of us have made positive changes in plastic use, a new study reveals that over 90 percent of canned foods tested were positive for the detection of BPA. So, now what are you to do?

BPA has been used in metal-based food and beverage cans and plastics since the 1960's. While studies find that BPA is present in canned foods and plastics across the U.S. and Canada, awareness has created positive steps of change as well. Canada, Denmark, some U.S. states, and cities have restricted BPA use in baby bottles and the lining of canned baby formula. At the beginning of this year, the U.S. EPA and Department of Health and Human Services began taking a closer look at BPA and safer product alternatives. In March, Canada began restricting the import of baby bottles containing BPA and several European countries have also limited products containing BPA for young children as well.

While you will most likely not be able to eliminate BPA exposure entirely, you can take steps to reduce dietary exposure from metal cans. Here are some things to keep in mind as your plan and prepare meals for your family.

  • Limit Canned Goods When Possible - One of the best ways to reduce your BPA risk is to reduce use of canned foods in general in favor of fresh, dried or frozen options. If you can select local organic produce like green beans, corn, or peas from a local farmer, terrific. Blanch and flash freeze them and stock your freezer so you will have a nutrient rich, cost effective and BPA free supply all year long. If that isn't possible, select dried beans or frozen vegetables instead of canned. If you must purchase canned foods, use resources to help you locate those that are BPA-free.

  • Select Alternative Packaging - As more and more is learned about BPA and packaging, new alternatives are showing up on store shelves for many canned foods, beverages, juices and infant formulas. Some manufactures are also using BPA-free linings instead of the BPA-based epoxy adhesive cans that have been problematic. When possible, select glass jars or aseptic packaging made of paperboard, low-density polyethylene, and aluminum foil (it is important to note that recycling of this packaging is not widely available).
Did you know BPA was in canned foods, beverages and juices? Are you concerned about the health risks for you and your family?