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The European Commission has implemented a ban on Bisphenol A (BPA) in food contact materials, responding to increasing concerns over the chemical's potential health risks.

BPA, widely used in the production of various plastics and resins, will no longer be permitted in products that come into direct contact with food and beverages, including metal can coatings, reusable plastic bottles and kitchenware.

This decision follows a unanimous vote from EU Member States earlier this year and a comprehensive assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Recent evaluations have indicated that BPA may adversely affect the immune system, raising alarms among health officials.

The Commission's action is rooted in a commitment to consumer safety, driven by extensive public consultations and discussions with industry stakeholders.

The ban builds on existing restrictions, as BPA has already been prohibited in the EU for infant bottles and similar products due to its potential endocrine-disrupting properties.

Under the new regulation, manufacturers will face an 18-month phase-out period for most BPA-containing products, allowing time for the industry to adapt and mitigate any disruptions in the food supply chain. Limited exceptions will be granted only in cases where no suitable alternatives exist, emphasizing the urgency for manufacturers to innovate.

Moreover, the regulation extends beyond BPA to encompass other bisphenols identified as harmful to reproductive and endocrine health. This broader scope reflects a proactive approach to enhancing food safety standards across the board.

Oliver Várhelyi, Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, said: “Maintaining high food safety standards in the European Union and protecting citizens is one of the Commission’s highest priorities. Today’s ban, which is based on solid scientific advice, will protect our consumers against harmful chemicals where they can come into contact with their food and drink.”

For food and beverage manufacturers, this regulatory change necessitates a thorough reevaluation of materials used in product packaging and distribution. Companies will need to explore alternative substances that meet safety requirements while ensuring product integrity and consumer acceptance.

The shift may also prompt increased research and development efforts to identify safer, more sustainable materials that align with consumer demand for healthier options.

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