Hazardous chemical substance substitution

Its different expert appraisal work on the health risks associated with exposure to bisphenol A has led ANSES to conclude that there are sufficient scientific data to consider it a priority to reduce exposure of the most vulnerable populations: infants, young children, pregnant and breastfeeding women. Since January 2015, for example, bisphenol A has been prohibited in food containers placed on the market in France. It is therefore necessary to find alternatives to bisphenol A. 

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic chemical that has been used for very many years mainly in the production of polycarbonates and as a feedstock for epoxy resins, but also in the manufacture of other polymers, etc. ANSES has identified nearly 60 industry sectors in France potentially using this substance. On the basis of its work to study the uses and assess the health effects of BPA, as early as September 2011 the Agency recommended reducing population exposure, in particular by substituting this substance in food contact materials. These recommendations were confirmed by the expert appraisal published by the Agency in 2013. Since 1 January 2015, the use of BPA has been prohibited in the manufacture of food containers (infant feeding bottles, other bottles, cans, etc.). In addition, since 2012, ANSES has examined several dossiers on BPA in the framework of the REACh and CLP Regulations for the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).