Last week, in a reversal of its 2008 declaration that Bisphenol A (BPA) was safe, the FDA expressed "some concern" about this chemical found in plastic bottles and metal cans. Noting "the potential effects of BPA on the brain, behavior, and prostate gland in fetuses, infants, and young children," the FDA says it will conduct more in-depth studies. For now, though, BPA remains legal and unregulated. Here are some ways you can reduce your exposure.
• Avoid polycarbonate plastic bottles and containers. These are usually hard, clear, and marked with number 7 or the letters "PC." Use unlined glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers, instead. If using plastic, look for soft, cloudy plastic and the numbers 1, 2, and 4, which do not contain BPA.
• Don't mix heat and plastic. BPA may be released at high temperatures, so do not microwave or put hot foods or liquids in BPA containers.
• Discard scratched plastic bottles and containers. BPA can leak from the scratches.
• Avoid (or eat fewer) canned foods and drinks. BPA is used in the linings of canned foods, and highly acidic foods like tomatoes may leach more BPA. Choose foods that are fresh, frozen, or packaged in glass or cardboard containers, instead. Some home canning lids also contain BPA, but you should be able to avoid contamination if there's enough head space between the contents and the lid.
Many of these tips were culled from the Environmental Working Group. For their full guide, see Tips to Avoid BPA Exposure.
For the FDA report, see Update on Bisphenol A for Use in Food Contact Applications: January 2010.
Related: Food News: The Latest on BPA
(Image: Emily Ho)
Posted originally from: TheKitchn
Dirty Little Secrets of Tidy Families
Hillary & Michael's Refined Roost
Good Food to Share 
The Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces 
Apartment Therapy Presents 
The Eight-Step Home Cure 
Nomade Express Slee...
My Staple Summer Cocktail Recipe: Campari & IPA Spritzer
Easy Pickle Recipe: Cucumber Kimchi Bites
This is so scary. I never use plastic to pack my food up but do rely on canned food. I realize I can make tomato paste and buy jarred tomatoes for cooking but I eat a lot of canned alaskan salmon, smoked trout and an occasional Tuna.
I don't know how to replace that.
How about we ban it UNTIL it's proven safe instead of allowing it until it's proven unsafe? Oh no, we wouldn't want to limit the rights that companies have. Or our right to consume potentially unsafe chemicals.
taqah, what brand are you buying of jarred tomatoes? i've looked for some and never found them locally in Texas. I used to be able to buy tomatoes in a box but now can't even find those.
You could try the packaged (pouched) tuna?
Also be careful about handling store receipts. The thermal paper has bpa that is easily absorbed into the skin. Alcohol can make this worse so wash your hands with soap and water after going to the store, or just don't ask for the receipt.