Bisphenols are associated with breast cancer, infertility, and other health issues. Credit: Vitalii Vodolazskyi via Shutterstock.

An expert committee of EU member states has voted to ban certain bisphenols, including bisphenol A, in food contact materials (FCMs).  

This decision aims to protect consumers from endocrine-disrupting chemicals that are classified as toxic for reproduction.  

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Bisphenol A and other bisphenols have been linked to a range of health issues, including breast cancer, infertility, and neurological disorders in children. 

These chemicals are widely used in the production of polymers and resins for plastic in coatings for cans and cardboard packaging, among other applications. 

In February this year, the European Commission (EC) released a draft regulation proposing the ban.  

The proposed restriction by the EC is set to effectively prohibit the use of BPA and other harmful bisphenols in the manufacture and market access of most FCMs containing them.  

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Welcoming the vote, Health and Environment Alliance health and chemicals programme lead Sandra Jen said: “The decision by EU member states experts to support the restriction of bisphenol A (BPA) and other bisphenols in most food packaging is a long-awaited step to reduce people’s exposure to these harmful chemicals. 

“We now also need a group restriction on the use of bisphenols for all consumer products beyond food contact material to ensure these harmful chemicals will no longer negatively impact people’s health and the environment.” 

The latest proposal will now be reviewed by the European Parliament and the European Council.  

It could be implemented by the end of this year if it remains unopposed during the review. 

The implementation in the EU market will include transition periods of up to three years, allowing industries to adjust to the new regulations.