EFSA draft opinion suggests lowering the tolerable Bisphenol A daily intake

22 December 2021

In an opinion published in December 2021, the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) has re-assessed the risks of bisphenol A (BPA) in food, suggesting to drastically lower the tolerable daily intake (TDI) compared to its previous assessment in 2015. EFSA is now recommending that the TDI be changed from 4 micrograms per kilogram of body weight per day to 0.04 nanograms per kilogram of body weight per day. 

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical often used in chemical mixtures to manufacture plastics, resins and polycarbonate plastics. These are eventually used to produce certain food contact materials such as food containers, tableware or protective coatings for cans. It is known that, as a result, small amounts of BPA are capable of migrating from these food contact materials into our food.

The decision to lower the tolerable daily intake results from 2013-2018 studies which have proven the toxicity of bisphenol A. Notable findings show the adverse effects of BPA on the immune system, especially in animals. 

Experts from EFSA’s CEP Panel and the BPA working group will present their approach, evidence gathered and conclusions at a technical meeting for stakeholders on January 24, 2022.

A public consultation was launched this December and will run until February 8th, 2022.