The possible presence of BPA (Bisphenol A) in cans is yet another reason why fresh food is preferable to canned food in the interest of health.
BPA is a chemical used in the production of the resins that coat the inside of some food cans; this coating allows the canned food to be heated to kill off bacteria without the metal in the can contaminating the food contents.
BPA is also commonly used in the production of polycarbonate plastics found in many water and infant feeding bottles, compact discs and water supply pipes.
Concerns have been raised recently over its safety, prompting many enquiries from concerned parents and consumers to the Consumer Council.
BPA intake is suspected to be associated with a number of health and developmental problems in humans such as breast cancer and prostate cancer.
The issue is still under study by health authorities in many countries. While some studies in laboratory animals suggest that BPA may have an effect on the reproductive system, there is so far no evidence of adverse effects on human.
Canada is the first country in the world to complete a risk assessment on BPA, and to initiate a 60-day public consultation period on whether to ban the importation, sale and advertising of BPA containing baby bottles.
Based on ongoing review, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) believes that there is a large body of evidence to indicate that FDA-regulated products containing BPA currently on the market are safe and that exposure levels to BPA from food contact materials, including for infants and children, are below those that may cause health effects.
FDA is not recommending anyone to discontinue using products that contain BPA. Concerned consumers should know that several alternatives to polycarbonate baby bottles do exist in the marketplace for their choice.
While there is so far no adverse effects on human, the studies on BPA are still under way, consumers who are concerned can make personal choices to reduce exposure by noting the followings:
- Avoid containers carrying the letters "PC".
- Glass baby bottles are usually BPA-free.
- Consume more fresh food and less canned food.
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