BPA ban in the EU: What’s behind the decision?

Bisphenol A and plasticizers are often confused. Strictly speaking, BPA is not a plasticizer. They belong to different groups of substances.

Although both are used in plastic production, they serve different purposes. Their effects on the properties of plastics differ significantly:

• BPA – is used to produce hard, rigid plastics such as polycarbonate and epoxy resins. It makes plastic products strong, shatterproof, and transparent. These plastics are used to make items such as drinking bottles, food containers, and the linings of canned foods.
• Plasticizers – are typically added during the production of PVC. They do not strengthen plastic but instead make it soft and flexible. That is why plasticizers are generally not used in common bottles, but are found in items such as cables, films, flooring, toys, and various rubber products.

The confusion between BPA and plasticizers likely arises because both are suspected of having hormone-like effects and may pose health risks. As a result, both groups of substances are now heavily regulated or banned in sensitive product categories such as food packaging and baby products in the EU.

There is growing emphasis on safer alternatives. Consumers are more aware of the issue and look for labels such as “BPA-free” or “no plasticizers” when buying drinking bottles.

The European Union has implemented a ban on BPA in specific products to protect infants, children, and consumers. One of the earliest and most recognized steps was the 2011 ban on BPA in baby bottles. Since then, restrictions have expanded to many other product categories.

After years of scientific evaluation and political debate, the EU adopted a comprehensive ban on BPA in materials that come into contact with food. The law came into effect in January 2025. It includes transition periods and narrowly defined exemptions to help industry and consumers adapt.

Key milestones:

• April 2023 – The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) publishes a new assessment of BPA.
  The conclusion is that the exposure levels previously considered safe actually pose risks to all age groups, especially to the immune, reproductive, and endocrine systems.
• February 2024 – On February 9, the European Commission proposes a regulation to ban BPA in food contact materials. A four-week public consultation follows.
• June 2024 – On June 12, EU member states endorse the Commission’s proposal to ban BPA in food contact materials. This includes packaging, reusable plastic drinking bottles, and other products.
• July 2024 – EU member states officially approve Regulation (EU) 2024/3190, which establishes the BPA ban.
• End of 2024 – EU member states officially approve Regulation (EU) 2024/3190, which establishes the BPA ban.
• January 20, 2025 – The BPA ban takes full effect. The use and sale of BPA, its salts, and other bisphenols in food contact materials is prohibited throughout the EU.
  Materials affected include adhesives, rubbers, ion exchange resins, plastics, printing inks, silicones, varnishes, and coatings.
  Particularly impacted are packaging and consumer goods such as reusable plastic beverage bottles.

Even after the BPA ban has taken effect, products containing BPA may still be available due to the transition period. Items manufactured before the regulation came into force can still be sold during this time.

Consumers can reduce their exposure to BPA by following these tips:

• Use glass as an alternative: Many canned foods are also available in glass jars, which are BPA-free and easily recyclable. The same goes for drinking bottles.
• Look for “BPA-free” labels: Many manufacturers already offer BPA-free alternatives and label them clearly.
• Avoid plastic for hot foods: For hot, greasy, or acidic foods, it is better to use containers made of glass, stainless steel, or ceramic rather than plastic.
• Check recycling codes: Recycling codes like 01-PET, 02-HDPE, 04-LDPE, and 05-PP are generally BPA-free. Codes like 03-PVC, 06-PS, or 07-Other may contain BPA.

These simple steps can help reduce your BPA exposure and minimize potential health risks.

The BPA ban is an important measure for consumer protection. Due to the transition period, it may take some time before the ban is fully implemented. Still, it demonstrates how regulation can contribute to public health and the importance of adjusting legislation in line with scientific findings.

Handling hormone-disrupting substances requires continued vigilance, transparency, and responsible action from industry, policymakers, and consumers alike.