Bisphenol A (BPA), a compound that has been under scrutiny for years for its potentially harmful health effects, may no longer be used on the European market

The recent adoption of Regulation (EU) 2024/3190 on 31 December 2024 tightens the restrictions on this type of substance in the area of packaging and food contact materials. This measure is the result of a regulatory process that has progressively limited the use of BPA since it was banned in the manufacture of polycarbonate baby bottles in 2011.

 

The regulation, which will be mandatory as of 20 July 2026 after a transition period of 18 months, introduces fundamental changes based on the scientific re-evaluation issued by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Article 1 of the regulation bans the use of BPA in the manufacture of varnishes, coatings, printing inks, adhesives, ion exchange resins and rubbers intended for food contact materials. It also removes BPA from the positive list of Regulation (EU) No 10/2011, which means its definitive exclusion from the substances permitted for the manufacture of food grade plastics. Regulation (EU) 2018/213 which included this substance in the Regulation on food contact plastics would therefore be repealed.

 

Another significant change would concern substances using BPA as a precursor, such as BADGE and other derivatives regulated by Regulation (EC) nº 1895/2005; used for the manufacture of liquid epoxy resins, which use BPA as a starting substance. It shall be ensured that in its final state the presence of free BPA that may migrate into the food above detectable levels is not present.

 

The impact of this regulation is not limited to BPA. It requires the evaluation of other bisphenol substances prior to use, forcing industry to rethink the materials used, the production processes and the composition of their products (Article 5). This transition is not only a legal obligation; it is an opportunity to respond to the growing consumer demand for safer and more sustainable products.

 

ITENE performs analysis of BPA and other bisphenol substances to comply with the new legislation and ensure consumer safety, including the determination of Non-Intentional Substances (NIAS). We offer consultancy and legislative monitoring services to guide companies in the substitution of materials, optimisation of production processes and design of packaging that complies with the Declaration of Conformity and legal standards. We implement quality control systems and develop advanced technologies for the detection and elimination of contaminants in recycled plastics, positioning ITENE as a benchmark in safe and sustainable packaging.

 

The elimination of Bisphenol A marks a new era for the packaging sector and a further step by the European Commission to guarantee and protect the health of consumers. Now is the time to invest in innovative solutions and demonstrate that industry can lead the way towards a safer and more sustainable future.

 

 

Javier Zabaleta