Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Safety assessments compiled from FDA, EFSA, FSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies. This information is for educational purposes — consult a healthcare professional for dietary advice.
Bisphenol A (BPA)
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Data sourced from WHO JECFA, FDA, EFSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Bisphenol A (BPA) is rated "Avoid / Concerns" according to current evidence. It is approved in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).
On This Page
What is Bisphenol A (BPA)?
Endocrine disruptor from food packaging. In canned food linings, plastic containers. EU banned in baby bottles (2011). EFSA lowered TDI 20,000-fold in 2023. US FDA maintains current BPA uses are safe. Many companies moving to BPA-free
Bisphenol A (BPA) is classified as a Contaminant additive. It is currently approved in all major regulatory markets. This is one of the more debated food additives among scientists and consumers.
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
ApprovedEndocrine disruptor from food packaging. In canned food linings, plastic containers. EU banned in baby bottles (2011). EFSA lowered TDI 20,000-fold in 2023. US FDA maintains current BPA uses are safe. Many companies moving to BPA-free
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
Restricted (banned in infant items)Endocrine disruptor from food packaging. In canned food linings, plastic containers. EU banned in baby bottles (2011). EFSA lowered TDI 20,000-fold in 2023. US FDA maintains current BPA uses are safe. Many companies moving to BPA-free
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EUFollows EU regulations
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW🇨🇦 CanadaCA
ApprovedGenerally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
Check FSANZVerify with Food Standards Australia New Zealand.
🇮🇳 India
Check FSSAIVerify with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
Check MFDSVerify with South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
🇧🇷 Brazil
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
Check GB 2760Verify with China's GB 2760 National Food Safety Standard.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
Expert Analysis
Bisphenol A (BPA) is classified as a contaminant in the food additive regulatory framework. Significant safety concerns have been identified, and this additive is restricted or banned in multiple markets. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. Bisphenol A (BPA) remains one of the most debated food additives, generating significant public and scientific discussion. Consumers who prefer to follow the precautionary principle may wish to limit their intake. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Bisphenol A (BPA) safe?
Bisphenol A (BPA) has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Bisphenol A (BPA) vegan?
Bisphenol A (BPA) is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Bisphenol A (BPA) banned in Europe?
No, Bisphenol A (BPA) is Restricted (banned in infant items) in the EU.
What is Bisphenol A (BPA) made from?
Endocrine disruptor from food packaging. In canned food linings, plastic containers. EU banned in baby bottles (2011). EFSA lowered TDI 20,000-fold in 2023. US FDA maintains current BPA uses are safe. Many companies moving to BPA-free
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bisphenol A (BPA) safe?
Is Bisphenol A (BPA) banned in any country?
What is Bisphenol A (BPA) used for?
Sources & References
Regulatory data for Bisphenol A (BPA) is sourced from the following agencies:
- FDA: Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS)
- EFSA: Food Additives Database
- FSA: Approved Additives and E Numbers
- MHLW: Standards for Use of Food Additives
- Health Canada: Lists of Permitted Food Additives
- FSANZ: Food Additives
- FSSAI: Food Safety and Standards
- MFDS: Food Additives Standards
- ANVISA: Food Additives Legislation
- GB 2760: National Food Safety Standard
- WHO JECFA: International Safety Evaluations
- CSPI: Chemical Cuisine — Food Additive Safety Ratings
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