Bisphenol-A (BPA) is an industrial chemical and the main component of polycarbonate, the clear and hard plastic used in making water bottles and thousands of other food and drink packages. BPA linings are also commonly used on water pipes and on the inside of soft drink cans.
In 2010, the US Food and Drug Administration expressed concern that products including BPA could expose pregnant women, babies and small children to increased risk of cancer and diabetes. In 2014, the agency revised its position stating that current levels of BPA use in food posed no significant health risk.
Health care experts recommend using BPA-free water bottles, and avoiding canned goods that use BPA lining. BPA-containing packages are identified by the triangle of arrows with the number 7 inside it. The Oregon Environmental Council has developed a “BPA Free” designation awarded to qualifying products.
Meet Our Providers