ARCHIVED - Survey of Bisphenol A in Soft Drink and Beer Products from Canadian Markets - Summary

Health Canada recently conducted a survey entitled Survey of Bisphenol A in Soft Drink and Beer Products from Canadian Markets.

The survey examined the levels of Bisphenol A (BPA) in several types of beverages packaged in can, glass, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) containers. Samples from 38 different soft drink and beer products were analyzed for BPA. With the exception of one bottled beer product, BPA was not detected in products stored in either glass or PET bottles. However, low levels of BPA were detected in all canned beer and soft drink products. The absence of BPA in beverages stored in plastic and glass containers indicate that the low levels of BPA found in canned beverages may be a result of migration from the can coating, rather than from concentrations from other sources (i.e.: water used in production).

The results of this survey further confirm that exposure to BPA from canned beverage products is very low and poses no health or safety concerns to the general population.

The survey was conducted by Health Canada as part of its research and monitoring agenda to further gather occurrence levels of BPA in canned food products for sale in Canada, and improve its understanding of CanadiansÂ’ exposure to this chemical through food sources.

BPA is used to make epoxy resins, which are used as protective linings on the inside of metal lids and containers. These linings serve an important role as they prevent corrosion of the metal and contamination of food and beverages from dissolved metals. The linings also play an important role in preserving the quality and safety of the food.

The Government of Canada continues to take action to protect the health of Canadians and the environment from chemicals of concern, and is making progress on commitments made under the Chemicals Management Plan regarding BPA. Health Canada has also committed to facilitate the assessment of any industry proposed alternative can coatings that do not contain BPA.

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