American Chemistry Council calls on FDA to update review of Bisphenol A

Apr 17 2008

The American Chemistry Council (ACC) today sent a letter to FDA Commissioner Andrew von Eschenbach requesting FDA to update its review of the safety of bisphenol A in food contact applications.

The extensive body of scientific study regarding bisphenol A is well documented and well reviewed. Nevertheless, recent media reports have raised concerns about the safety and use of polycarbonate plastic and epoxy resins, unnecessarily confusing and frightening the public.

An updated review of bisphenol A in food contact applications, led by the premier food safety agency in the United States - the FDA - will help explain the extensive scientific review that has already been conducted on this compound. And this review will allow the agency to issue the most recent evaluation of all the science, and all agency reviews to date, quickly and in a way that is understandable to the public. We believe that an update by FDA, accompanied by a clear communication from the agency about what the science means, is needed, and ask FDA to move forward promptly with this review. It is important that FDA move as quickly as possible to undertake this review, since the results, regardless of outcome will help better inform the public.

The use of polycarbonate plastic and epoxy resins for food contact applications has been and continues to be recognized as safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the European Food Safety Authority, the Japanese Ministry for Health, Labor and Welfare, and other regulatory authorities worldwide. Members of the American Chemistry Council (ACC) are committed to openly and transparently sharing environmental, health and safety data with the government and the public. Today, people are living longer, safer and healthier lives through the essential benefits provided by the business of chemistry.

Bisphenol A is used to make polycarbonate plastic, a shatter-resistant and clear material used in a wide array of products ranging from plastic bottles and eyeglasses to sports safety equipment, as well as components of lifesaving medical devices such as incubators and kidney dialysis machines. It is also used to make durable epoxy resins, materials used as the coating in most food and beverage cans, helping to protect the safety and integrity of our food supply.

A copy of the letter can be downloaded at www.americanchemistry.com

Additional information on plastics and bisphenol-A www.factsonplastic.com and www.bisphenol-a.org