The ban of hazardous bisphenols from food contact materials in the European Union

In the years 2021 to 2023, a significant debate took place within the European Union (EU) regarding the necessity of re-evaluating the substance bisphenol A. In 2021, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) put forth a proposal to significantly reduce the Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI), thereby markedly increasing its toxicity. The initial proposal was to reduce the TDI from 4000 ng/kg bw/day to 0.04 ng/kg bw/day. Following a contentious debate, the TDI was reduced to 0.2 ng/kg bw/day in April 2023. This decision was based on new evidence from animal studies indicating that bisphenol A may have a more detrimental impact on human health than previously assumed. Some authorities and research groups view the reduced TDI as an overreaction, while others support the decision and advocate for further reductions.

In consequence of the reclassification of the TDI, the European Commission resolved to ban bisphenol A and other hazardous bisphenols and hazardous bisphenol derivatives in food contact materials. The legislative process was discussed with the Member States of the EU and industry stakeholders, resulting in a final draft regulation banning bisphenol A and other hazardous bisphenols and hazardous bisphenol derivatives in June 2024 which shall come into force end of 2024.

A definitive schedule has been established for the implementation of the ban in food contact materials, along with a delineation of the exceptions that will be permitted. Some questions remain unanswered, particularly about the impact of the ban on the assessment of food safety.

In one small study, the content of bisphenol A and bisphenol S in various fats and oils, as well as high-fat foods, was examined. The effects of the lowering of the TDI and the forthcoming ban are presented. Additionally, an explanation is provided regarding the definition of hazardous bisphenols and derivatives in the EU.