Food Safety Focus (59th Issue, June 2011) – Food Incident Highlight

Bisphenol A (BPA) in Coca-cola Cans

Safety concern of Bisphenol A (BPA) was raised when media reported that trace amount of BPA was found in the coating of the Coca-cola cans.

A protective coating made with BPA in metal-based cans is used for preventing corrosion of the can and contamination of food and beverages with dissolved metals.

Although the media suggested that BPA may cause cancers, various food authorities have concluded that BPA absorbed from food by individuals, including newborns and infants, is very low and not expected to pose a health risk. Some countries have taken precautionary measures to reduce BPA exposure, particularly in infants, by banning BPA in baby bottles. Some have encouraged voluntary phase out of baby bottles made with BPA. No country has prohibited the use of BPA in food cans. The Centre for Food Safety supports the efforts of the trade to replace BPA-containing baby bottles and minimise BPA levels in food can lining. Nevertheless, the public should follow the advice, such as removing food from the can before heating, to minimise the risk related to BPA.