The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has introduced a new regulation banning the use of bisphenol A in materials that come into contact with food and beverages. This change will significantly affect bottled water producers, particularly those using polycarbonate water coolers in Europe.
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic organic compound extensively used in producing polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. These materials are favored in numerous consumer and industrial products, such as plastic water bottles and water cooler containers, because of their impact resistance, clarity, and durability. However, concerns about BPA leaching into beverages have prompted regulatory changes aimed at ensuring consumer safety.
Polycarbonate plastics, containing BPA, are favoured in bulk water dispensing because they provide a clear, long-lasting container that ensures the aesthetic appeal of the product. However, the length of contact between water and plastic in these containers raises concerns about BPA leaching into the water over time.
The recent EU regulation on bisphenol A (BPA) introduces specific timelines for the transition to compliance. Below are the key dates and provisions outlining the phased implementation of the BPA ban for food contact materials:
Recent research has highlighted the role of BPA and other hazardous bisphenols in potentially harmful effects on the immune system and other health issues. The EFSA's reassessment aims to address these emerging concerns by tightening safety standards. The EU has banned the chemical from use in infant products such as baby bottles and bottle teats since 2011.
Maintaining high food safety standards in the European Union and protecting citizens is one of the Commission’s highest priorities. Today’s ban, which is based on solid scientific advice, will protect our consumers against harmful chemicals where they can come into contact with their food and drink.
Oliver Várhelyi, Commissioner for Health & Animal Welfare
The ban on BPA will effectively ban the use of polycarbonate for the manufacturing of watercooler bottles in the EU. The last time a polycarbonate bottle can be placed on the market will be the 20th of July 2026. This gives producers an 18 month transition period to move to an alternative material, such as PET.
The legislation also mandates the latest these bottles can be on the market. Bottles will need to be removed from the market by the 20th of January 2029 latest. This means that reusable polycarbonate bottles have a 3 year protection on the market before they need to be removed and replaced from the market. Bottles that wear out naturally during that time can only be replaced by BPA free bottles. The result of the legislation is a complete replacement of polycarbonate coolers by the start of January 2029.
In response to the impending regulations, PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) emerges as a viable alternative to polycarbonate plastics. PET offers several advantages:
Learn more about Petainer's PET solutions and how they can help your business transition to BPA-free packaging. Visit our water bottles and water coolers pages for more information.
PET's recyclability aligns with global sustainability goals, reducing the environmental footprint of packaging materials. Additionally, PET production emits less than 60% of the carbon emissions compared to polycarbonate.
Feature | Polycarbonate | PET |
---|---|---|
BPA Content | Contains BPA | BPA-Free |
Recyclability | Limited | High |
Carbon Emissions | Higher | Lower |
As evidence mounts regarding BPA's potential health risks, proactive assessment and adaptation of packaging solutions are crucial. Transitioning to PET packaging not only ensures compliance with upcoming EU regulations but also aligns with sustainability initiatives.
BPA is a synthetic compound used to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. It provides durability and clarity to products like water bottles.
Polycarbonate uses BPA in its manufacture. Drinking water stored in this plastic can leak BPA into the water that people consume. The safe limit of BPA has been reduced, impacting polycarbonate.
The proposed ruling significantly lowers the allowable BPA intake, necessitating a shift to BPA-free alternatives like PET to comply with regulations.
PET packaging is shatterproof, clear, more environmentally friendly, and compliant with stricter BPA regulations.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about this topic, feel free to drop us an email. We're always here to help and provide further insights. Contact us to continue the conversation.
Choose sustainable, high-performance PET solutions designed to reduce waste, lower costs, and protect your products—all while supporting a circular economy. Start your journey today.
Get in touch