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.  

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.  

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.