EU adopts ban of BPA in food contact materials

On December 19, 2024, The European Commission has adopted a ban on the use of Bisphenol A (BPA) in food contact materials (FCM), due to its potentially harmful health impact. BPA is a chemical substance used in the manufacture of certain plastics and resins. 

The ban means that BPA will not be allowed in products that come into contact with food or drink, such as the coating on metal cans, reusable plastic drink bottles, water distribution coolers and other kitchenware. BPA is already banned in the EU for infant bottles and similar products.

 For most products, there will be an 18-month phase out period, and very limited exceptions where no alternatives exist, to allow industry time to adapt and avoid disruption in the food chain. The ban also includes other bisphenols that are harmful to the reproductive and endocrine systems. 

At present, the regulations have not been officially released and are expected to be consistent with the proposal released in June this year. 

The main content is as follows:

1. Prohibition of the use of BPA

It is prohibited to use BPA and its salts in adhesives, rubber, ion-exchange resins, plastics, printing inks, silicones, varnishes and coatings used in food contact materials and articles. Unless the following conditions are met:

2. Prohibition on the presence of BPA in FCM

Food contact materials and articles that have been manufactured using another bisphenol or bisphenol derivative shall not contain any residual BPA.

3. Prohibition of the use of hazardous bisphenols other than BPA or hazardous bisphenol derivatives

The use of hazardous bisphenols other than BPA or hazardous bisphenol derivatives in the manufacture of food contact materials and articles referred to in Article 1(2) and the placing on the market of food contact materials and articles manufactured using hazardous bisphenols other than BPA or hazardous bisphenol derivatives is prohibited.

4. Amendment to Regulation (EU) No 10/2011

• In Article 6, the following paragraph is added:‘6. By way of derogation from Article 5, 2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propane (‘bisphenol A’ or ‘BPA’) (CAS No 80-05-7) and other hazardous bisphenols or hazardous bisphenol derivatives as defined and falling within the scope of Regulation [insert this Regulation reference] may only be used in the manufacture of plastic materials and articles in accordance with that Regulation.’;

• in Table 1 of Annex I, the entries concerning substance No. 151 (2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propane) and substance No. 154 (4,4′-dihydroxydiphenyl sulphone) are deleted.