WASHINGTON – FDA awarded a safety certification to a chemical, used in baby bottles, canned food and household item in spite of persistent safety concern from consumers and politicians.
The trace amounts of bisphenol A, that used in canned food are harmless to infants or adults. The agency acknowledged that still more research is needed to fully understand the chemical’s effects on humans, and said “there are always uncertainties associated with safety decisions.”
Bisphenol A used to harden plastic, seal canned food and in making of unbreakable bottles, is similar in structure to estrogen hormone. It is also used in hundreds of consumer products, ranging from sunglasses to CDs.
American Chemistry Council, which has defended the chemical’s safety, welcomed the FDA report.
“FDA is the government agency we rely upon to assess food-contact products. They’ve assessed this issue in great detail and their conclusion is very reassuring,” said Steve Hentges, an executive director with the council
