Are industrial chemicals lurking in your kitchen? There’s a good chance that they are and you probably don’t know it. Bisphenol A, or BPA, is a plastic or resin in items that people use every day. Two types of plastic contain BPA: polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins.
Polycarbonate plastics are found in hard containers used for food storage, making them common in many people’s kitchens. Epoxy resins are a thin type of plastic material used as a coating for items like the inner surfaces of cans.
Why should you be concerned about BPA in your kitchen? Animal studies show BPA is a hormone disruptor, meaning it alters hormones that regulate metabolic health. Some studies link it with infertility and changes to organs, including the brain and prostate gland, and conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Children may be especially sensitive to the effects of BPA because their brains and bodies are still developing. Fortunately, some manufacturers are substituting another type of plastic for BPA, but it’s unclear whether the substitute is safer. Some believe it is also a health risk.
Some experts believe BPA, from sources like containers, can leach into food and liquids. This means you may get low-grade exposure to this chemical all the time when you have sources of BPA in your kitchen. The Food and Drug Administration points out that BPA is likely safe at low levels, but if you use BPA-containing items frequently in your daily life, the amount you’re exposed to is higher.
At what level is it unsafe? Scientists have yet to determine this. So, it’s best to reduce how much BPA you and your family are exposed to every day, and that starts in the kitchen. Let’s look at the most common sources of BPA in the average kitchen.
Plastic containers
How many plastic containers do you have in your kitchen? For most people, it’s quite a few. BPA is in rigid plastics, including clear or colored containers and manufacturers don’t have to disclose whether their plastic contains BPA. Your best bet is to swap plastic food containers for ones made of food-safe ceramic, glass, or stainless steel. These options are durable and free of BPA.
If you continue to use plastic containers, don’t place them in the microwave or expose foods in plastic containers to heat. Warm temperatures can increase the amount of BPA that leaches into the food in the container. Also, don’t wash plastic containers in the dishwasher. Wash them gently by hand, and discard those that develop scratches or nicks.
Plastic wraps
Plastic wraps don’t contain BPA, but they may contain another hormone disruptor diethylhexyl adipate (DEHA). So, reducing or eliminating plastic wrap from your kitchen is another smart move for your health. Plastic wrap maintains contact with food surfaces for long periods, creating lots of opportunities for leaching.
The good news? There are alternatives out there! Beeswax wraps are a natural and reusable alternative to plastic wrap that won’t release harmful chemicals into your food, while still keeping it safe and protected. Beeswax wrappers are coated with a food-grade wax that makes them safe for storing food. The fact that they are reusable makes them better for the environment too.
Canned Foods
You can reduce your exposure to BPA by avoiding canned foods, especially those made with BPA-containing epoxy linings. Canned foods are a major source of BPA exposure. The lining in cans is designed to prevent corrosion, but also contains BPA, which leaches out into the food.
Even if you avoid canned foods, you may still be exposed to BPA if you eat out or buy pre-packaged food from a store. In fact, some studies show that people who eat at restaurants consume higher levels than those who cook their meals at home. Many restaurants, especially less expensive ones, use canned foods to prepare patrons’ meals.
In some cases, particularly when you buy canned goods from the supermarket–it may not be possible to avoid these products entirely. However, some companies have moved away from BPA in recent years, so there are options out there. Do your research before buying food storage containers and don’t buy based solely on price.
Kitchen Appliances
Some kitchen appliances may contain BPA too. Many appliances are made with polycarbonate plastic, containing BPA, because it’s so tough and resistant to cracks and damage. Examples are food processors, steamers, blenders, and coffee makers, including single-serve coffee makers and espresso machines. It can be hard to find alternatives for some appliances. The biggest concern is for parts that encounter food or liquid. If possible, find alternatives where parts that contact food is made from stainless steel or glass rather than plastic. If you can’t find an alternative, ask the company whether the plastic is BPA-free. If it’s not look for a healthier alternative.
Paper Towels
Did you know some paper towels contain small quantities of BPA? Fortunately, the amount is lower than the amount on cash register receipts you get at the supermarket. If you’re a cashier, wear gloves. The concern is that the chemical can leach from the paper towels into food and drinks or be transferred from the paper towel to other surfaces like your hands. To reduce exposure to BPA, opt for unbleached paper towels, which are less likely to contain the chemical. Additionally, avoid using paper towels to store and heat food, as the BPA can migrate into the food during this process.
The Bottom Line
BPA is everywhere! Fortunately, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has phased out BPA in children’s sippy cups and other items that children use, but there’s still plenty of BPA out there, especially in the kitchen.
So, what can you do? Stop buying plastic or epoxy-based materials as much as possible. Avoid products with BPA whenever you can (especially if you heat them), but when you have no choice, wash them by hand instead of putting them in the dishwasher. Also, avoid putting them in the microwave or exposing them to heat.
References:
- “Is Plastic Wrap Safe? – Ask Dr. Weil.” drweil.com/health-wellness/balanced-living/healthy-living/is-plastic-wrap-safe/.
- “BPA in Plastic Water Bottles: Get the Facts.” 20 Aug. 2018, factsaboutbpa.org/blog/explanation-bpa-plastic-water-bottles/.
- “Bisphenol A (BPA) | FDA – U.S. Food and Drug Administration.” fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/bisphenol-bpa.
- “Questions & Answers on Bisphenol A (BPA) Use in Food Contact ….” fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/questions-answers-bisphenol-bpa-use-food-contact-applications.
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