In the light of the most recent scientific evidence, and with a view to protecting public health and guaranteeing the highest food safety standards, on Wednesday 12 June the EU Member States approved a European Commission proposal to ban Bisphenol A (BPA) in food contact materials.
After a phasing-out period, Bisphenol A will no longer be allowed to be used in these products in the EU. This decision was based on a scientific assessment, which concluded that BPA had “potential harmful effects on the immune system”.
This ban, welcomed in a press release by the Health and Environment Alliance (HEAL), will mainly apply to the use of BPA in packaging, such as the lining of metal cans. The use of BPA in consumer articles such as reusable plastic drinks bottles, water dispensers and kitchen utensils will also be banned.
The ban, proposed following a public consultation and in-depth discussions with all the Member States (see EUROPE 13349/13), will be formally adopted after a period of scrutiny of the text by the European Parliament and the EU Council, and will come into force at the end of 2024.
Limited exceptions, where there are no safe alternatives, and transition periods will apply (up to 3 years), if they do not present a risk to consumers. This will enable industry to adapt and avoid disruptions to the food chain. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)