Canada: All infant formulae and foods tested for BPA found free from BPA

As part of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) routine testing of various food products, a survey found that all infant formulae and foods tested for Bisphenol A (BPA) were free from BPA and safe to consume. BPA in food packaging materials is permitted in Canada. BPA is a chemical used in the production of polycarbonate and epoxy resins. Food and beverage packaging, particularly metal cans, may be internally coated with epoxy resins to protect food from direct contact with metal. BPA can migrate from the epoxy coatings into food, particularly at elevated temperatures (for example, in hot-filled or heat-processed canned foods). Health Canada has concluded that the current dietary exposure to BPA through food packaging is not expected to pose a health risk to the general population, including newborns and young children. This conclusion has been re-affirmed by other international food regulatory agencies (News Release CFIA, 21 May 2013).