The EU will prohibit the sale of food packaging containing Bisphenol A (BPA) from July 2026, extending existing restrictions on the substance beyond baby bottles and thermal paper receipts, reported the German public broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW).
Bisphenol A is a synthetic chemical used in the production of polycarbonate, a rigid, clear plastic, and in epoxy resins.
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These resins are commonly used as inner coatings in food and drink cans to prevent metal from corroding and passing into the contents.
The report highlighted that the substance is also present in plastic films, printing inks and adhesives.
The measure covers both disposable food packaging and longer-use consumer items, including plastic drinks bottles, lunch boxes and kitchen utensils.
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), small quantities of chemicals such as BPA can migrate from containers into food and drinks.
The authority said that BPA is considered a potential health concern for all age groups.
The ESFA also reported that the chemical may affect parts of the immune system, with possible links to asthma and autoimmune conditions.
Evidence also points to a possible higher risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity.
A central concern is its effect on the body’s hormonal system.
BPA may reduce male and female fertility and may influence the timing or progression of puberty. It has also been associated with some forms of cancer.
Within the EU, the EFSA has reduced the tolerable daily intake for BPA from 4 micrograms to 0.2 nanograms per kilogram of body weight, a threshold regarded as safe over a lifetime, DW added.
A transition period lasting until 2028 will apply in cases where alternatives are not yet suitable, including cans for acidic foods that use BPA-based internal coatings.
These coatings are used to stop acid from damaging the metal and leaking into the food.
