Statement

Draft National Toxicology Program Report Supports Safety of Bisphenol A

ARLINGTON, VA (April 15, 2008) – The American Chemistry Council (ACC) supports the rigorous scientific evaluation process of the National Toxicology Program’s (NTP) Center for the Evaluation of Risks to Human Reproduction.  Following an expert panel review last year, yesterday’s release of the draft NTP Brief on bisphenol A affirms that there are no serious or high level concerns for adverse effects of bisphenol A on human reproduction and development.

“As consumers, you expect that the products you use are safe for you and your family,” stated Steven G. Hentges, Ph.D., of the American Chemistry Council’s Polycarbonate/BPA Global Group.  “The findings in NTP’s draft report provide reassurance that consumers can continue to use products made from bisphenol A.  Importantly, this conclusion has been affirmed by scientific and government bodies worldwide.”

The NTP Brief confirms that human exposure to bisphenol A is extremely low and noted no direct evidence in humans that exposure to bisphenol A adversely affects reproduction or development.  The limited evidence for affects in laboratory animals at low doses primarily highlights opportunities for additional research to better understand whether these findings are of any significance to human health.

“We strongly support scientific research on the safety of bisphenol A and have conducted extensive research ourselves for many years,” stated Dr. Hentges.  “As part of our ongoing research program, we are currently conducting a comprehensive study that addresses one of the key areas identified in the draft NTP report.”

Many independent scientific and government bodies worldwide have evaluated the science supporting the safety of bisphenol A.  Along with NTP’s draft report, these evaluations consistently support the conclusion that bisphenol A is not a risk to human health at the extremely low levels to which consumers might be exposed.

Many common consumer products that contribute to healthier and safer lives are based on plastics and resins made from bisphenol A, which has a 50 year safety track record.  Shatter-resistant and clear polycarbonate plastic is used in a wide array of products ranging from plastic bottles and eyeglasses to sports safety equipment, as well as components of life saving medical devices such as incubators and kidney dialysis machines.  Durable epoxy resins are used as the coating in most food and beverage cans, helping to protect the safety and integrity of our food supply.

Learn more facts on plastic.