Did you know that 93% of Americans have BPA in their bodies?1 Similarly, the European Environment Agency found that 92% of adults in 11 European countries also have detectable levels of BPA.2 It’s a staggering statistic—and one of the reasons I’ve spent time researching how to avoid it.
BPA (bisphenol A) has been a concern for years due to its potential health risks, leading many brands to slap on “BPA-free” product labels. But does that mean the plastic is safe? And what about products without a label—how can you tell if they contain BPA?
What Is BPA-Free?
A BPA-free label means a product was made without using BPA—a chemical commonly found in plastics and resins. This labeling became more widespread as concerns grew over BPA’s ability to mimic hormones in the body3, potentially leading to health risks.
But here’s the catch—BPA-free doesn’t always mean risk-free. Many manufacturers have swapped BPA for similar chemicals like BPS (Bisphenol S) or BPF (Bisphenol F), which may have their own health concerns. So while avoiding BPA is a good step, a BPA-free label isn’t necessarily a guarantee that the product is completely safe.
What Does BPA Mean?
BPA stands for Bisphenol A, a chemical compound first synthesized in the late 1800s and later adopted for making plastics stronger, lighter, and heat-resistant. It belongs to a family of chemicals called bisphenols, and it is widely used in everything from food containers to water bottles and even receipt paper.
A Brief History: How BPA Took Over Our Plastics
BPA was first synthesized in 1891, but it didn’t take off until the 1950s, when manufacturers realized it could create tough, lightweight plastics. Suddenly, it was everywhere—in food storage containers, baby bottles, canned goods, and even receipts. For years, no one thought much about it. Then, research started rolling in, raising concerns about its potential health effects.
Where Is BPA Still Hiding?
Even though BPA-free options are becoming more common, it’s still sneaking into plenty of everyday products. Here’s where you might still find it lurking:
- Older plastic water bottles and food containers: If you’re still holding on to that plastic bottle from way back when or using older containers, there’s a chance they could contain BPA.
- The lining of canned foods and drinks: Those metal cans holding your favorite soup or soda could still have a BPA-based lining. This coating is often used to prevent the can from corroding, but unfortunately, it could mean BPA is in your food or drink.
- Thermal paper receipts: Those glossy, shiny receipts you get after shopping? They often contain BPA, which can rub off on your hands and be absorbed through your skin.
While BPA is slowly being phased out, it’s clear that it’s still sticking around in some unexpected places. Being aware of where it’s hiding can help you make safer choices.
Is BPA-Free Plastic Actually Safe?
Just because something is labeled BPA-free doesn’t automatically mean it’s a safer choice. While removing BPA from plastics was a step in the right direction, many manufacturers have replaced it with similar chemicals—some of which may be just as problematic (or worse). So, is BPA-free plastic truly safe, or is it just a marketing buzzword?
The Problem with BPA Substitutes
When BPA started making headlines for its hormone-disrupting effects, companies scrambled to find alternatives. Enter BPS (Bisphenol S), BPF (Bisphenol F), and other bisphenol compounds designed to mimic BPA’s durability and heat resistance while avoiding bad PR. The catch? Many of these substitutes have been found to behave similarly in the body, potentially disrupting hormones, metabolism, and even brain function. Some key concerns about BPA-free alternatives:
- BPS and BPF are nearly as hormonally active as BPA, which may still interfere with the endocrine system.4
- Limited long-term research—since these substitutes are newer, we don’t fully know their long-term effects.
- Studies show that bisphenol-free plastics can still release chemicals, especially when exposed to heat, sunlight, or acidic foods.
Does BPA-Free Plastic Release Harmful Chemicals?
Yes, and heat plays a big role. Studies have shown that plastic—whether BPA-free or not—can degrade over time and leach chemicals into food and beverages. The risks increase when:
- Plastic is exposed to heat (microwaving, dishwashing, or leaving a water bottle in a hot car).
- The plastic is scratched or worn—tiny cracks can release more chemicals.
- Fatty or acidic foods interact with the plastic, pulling chemicals into your food.
What Are Safer Alternatives to Plastic?
While BPA-free plastic might be slightly better than its BPA-containing counterpart, the safest approach is to reduce plastic use altogether. Consider switching to:
- Glass – Non-toxic, doesn’t absorb flavors or chemicals, and lasts forever (unless you drop it).
- Stainless Steel – Great for water bottles, food storage, and cookware—just watch out for plastic lids or linings.
- Silicone – A flexible alternative for food storage, though some debate remains on its safety at very high temperatures.
Is BPA-Free More Expensive?
In most cases, yes—BPA-free alternatives tend to cost more than their BPA-containing counterparts. Glass and stainless steel products, for example, often come with a higher upfront price tag, but they also last longer. Conversely, safer plastics like polypropylene or Tritan™ can be pricier than regular polycarbonate plastic but offer a middle ground for those who still want lightweight, durable options.
At the end of the day, choosing BPA-free is a step in the right direction, but avoiding plastic altogether is the best bet when it comes to health and sustainability. If you’re investing in reusable containers, prioritizing materials like glass and stainless steel can be worth it—not just for your health but also for the planet.
How to Identify BPA-Free Products
With so many products claiming to be “BPA-free,” how do you know which ones actually are—and which ones might just be using clever marketing? Here’s how to navigate labels, symbols, and certifications to make informed choices.
Step 1: Read the Label (But Don’t Stop There)
Many products will have a clear BPA-free label, which is a good start. However, since BPA alternatives like BPS and BPF aren’t always disclosed, it’s worth digging deeper.
Step 2: Check the Plastic Recycling Code
Flip the product over and look for the little number inside the recycling triangle—this tells you what kind of plastic it’s made from.
- Avoid: #7 (Other) and #3 (PVC) – These often contain BPA or similar chemicals.
- Safer Options: #1 (PETE), #2 (HDPE), #4 (LDPE), and #5 (PP) – These are less likely to contain BPA, though #1 is single-use and should not be reused or rather used at all.
Step 3: Look for Trusted Certifications
Some third-party certifications confirm that a product has been tested and meets strict safety standards. Here are a few to look for:
- OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 is a globally recognized certification for textiles that ensures they are free from harmful substances, including BPA. Products that carry this certification have been tested for a wide range of chemicals, ensuring they meet strict safety standards for human health.
- NSF certification is a trusted standard for product safety and quality, particularly for items related to food and water. This certification ensures that products meet strict public health guidelines and have been tested for harmful substances, including BPA.
- MADE SAFE® Certified is a comprehensive, third-party certification that ensures products are made without toxic chemicals known to harm human health or the environment. Unlike some certifications that focus on a specific category, MADE SAFE® applies to a wide range of everyday products, including personal care items, household goods, baby products, and even bedding.
Step 4: Watch Out for Greenwashing
Just because a product says “BPA-free” doesn’t mean it’s completely free from harmful chemicals. Companies sometimes replace BPA with similar bisphenols (like BPS or BPF) without disclosing it. Marketing phrases like “safe plastic” or “eco-friendly” can be vague—look for specific material listings like Tritan™, polypropylene, glass, or stainless steel for a safer bet.
Step 5: Choose Brands with Transparent Materials
Some brands go the extra mile to disclose exactly what’s in their products. While it’s always good to double-check, here are a few that have built a reputation for safer materials:
- Water Bottles & Food Storage: Klean Kanteen, Hydro Flask, Life Without Plastic, Pyrex, Stasher Bags
- Baby Products: Green Sprouts, Hevea, Pura Stainless, Lifefactory
- Kitchenware: Caraway, Our Place, Xtrema, Anchor Hocking
- Reusable Utensils & Straws: Bambu, Klean Kanteen, Simply Straws
This Has Been About How to Tell if Plastic Is BPA-Free
At the end of the day, BPA-free plastic isn’t the perfect solution. While it’s better than BPA-filled plastic, many alternative chemicals come with their own concerns, and plastic, in general, still poses risks—both to our health and the environment.
The best way to avoid uncertainty is to choose non-plastic options whenever possible. Glass, stainless steel, ceramic, and high-quality silicone are all safer, more durable choices without hidden chemical worries. Plus, they last longer and don’t contribute to the endless cycle of plastic waste.
So while reading labels and choosing “less harmful” plastics can help in the short term, the real solution is moving toward a plastic-free lifestyle. When it comes to our health and the planet, cutting out plastic is always the smartest choice.
References
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. (n.d.). Bisphenol A (BPA). Retrieved from https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/sya-bpa ↩︎
- European Environment Agency. (2023). People’s exposure to bisphenol A. Retrieved from https://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/peoples-exposure-to-bisphenol-a ↩︎
- Wang, Y., Li, J., & Liu, C. (2021). Microplastics in the environment: Sources, fate, and toxicity. Science of The Total Environment, 791, 148383. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148383 ↩︎
- Gauthier, J. M., Brody, J. G., & Rudel, R. A. (2014). Bisphenol A and human health: A review of the evidence. Environmental Health Perspectives, 122(8), 1-8. https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1408989 ↩︎
