Government experts confirm advice on Bisphenol-A

Recent media coverage on Bisphenol-A or ‘BPA’ (a component of some plastics) has focussed on possible risks from baby bottles and packaging.

Australia’s world class regulatory system continues to monitor BPA studies, reviews, and assessments. The Australian Government’s Food Agency, Foods Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), has confirmed its advice on BPA, noting:

“FSANZ has assessed the risk to infants from exposure to BPA and concurred with the conclusions reached by the US FDA and the EFSA that the levels of exposure are very low and do not pose a significant health risk.

The move by overseas manufacturers to stop using BPA in baby bottles is a voluntary action and not the result of a specific action by regulators. However, FSANZ would support the use of alternatives to BPA in baby bottles provided they are safe.

FSANZ will continue to examine reviews from regulatory agencies and papers in the peer-reviewed literature, as they become available and determine whether any further action is required.”

The January 2010 Fact Sheet Bisphenol A (BPA) and food packaging is available on the FSANZ website.

The Plastics and Chemicals Industries Association (PACIA) strongly supports Australia’s independent, science-based approach to regulation, including professional collaboration with equivalent overseas government regulatory agencies, international standard setting bodies and chemical assessment bodies.

Media enquires

John Osborn, Director Marketing & Communications, (03) 9426 3809 / 0417 997 774

• FSANZ Factsheet 2010: Bisphenol A (BPA) and food packaging