Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic compound that has been used in the production of certain types of plastics and resins since the 1960s. BPA is an endocrine disruptor, meaning that it can interfere with the hormone system in animals and humans. Exposure to BPA can occur through diet, as this chemical can leach out of food and beverage containers made with certain types of plastic; through occupational exposure, for those who work in industries that use or manufacture BPA-containing products; or through consumer product exposure, from items such as thermal receipt paper. While the levels of BPA that people are exposed to are generally low, some studies have suggested that even these low levels of exposure may be harmful, particularly for fetuses, infants, and young children.
The European Union has banned the use of BPA in baby bottles, and Canada has declared it a toxic substance. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the use of BPA in baby bottles and infant formula packaging, but not in other food packaging. Some companies have voluntarily stopped using BPA in their products.