Since the end of 2024, a ban on Bisphenol A (BPA) has applied to almost all food contact materials. Do your packaging, kitchen utensils or production process comply with all the rules?
The new European legislation is now in force: the use of Bisphenol A (BPA) in food contact materials is banned or restricted to a minimum. This has direct consequences for food producers and retailers. Products such as packaging, kitchen utensils and parts of machinery that come into contact with food may no longer contain BPA or only in exceptional and strictly limited applications.
Bisphenol A is a chemical substance that was used for years in plastics and coatings that came into contact with food products. Upon exposure, however, BPA can migrate into food, especially when heated or stored for long periods.
Because of possible health risks, such as hormone-disrupting effects, the European authority EFSA reassessed the use of BPA at the end of 2024. This led to a substantial reduction in the acceptable intake and a near-total ban in food contact materials.
BPA was already banned or heavily restricted in:
With the legislation now in force, the use of BPA is therefore also banned or heavily restricted in all food-related applications.
As a retailer or producer, you must be able to demonstrate that your food contact materials comply with the new rules. This also applies to non-food products that come into contact with food, such as:
Products you purchased before the effective date may also fall under the new rules.
Our specialists at Eurofins Food Safety Solutions are happy to support you in complying with BPA regulations. From risk analysis and material screening to laboratory testing and supply chain control, we offer insight, certainty and practical solutions. Do you have questions about BPA or other food contact materials? Contact us for advice or a monitoring/analysis proposal at foodsafetysolutions@ftbnl.eurofins.com or +31(0)888 31 03 30.