The European Union (EU) restricts the use of bisphenol A (BPA) and other hazardous bisphenols in food‑contact materials (FCMs) in the extensive Note for Guidance supporting the implementation of Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/3190. This ensures consistent compliance across industries as the ban progresses toward full applicability in 2026.
For global buyers and suppliers trading related FCM and homeware products, this article summarizes the key dates and scope for making necessary accomodations.
The guidance reaffirms coverage of materials where BPA may be used as a monomer or in coatings — such as plastics, epoxy varnishes and coatings, printing inks, adhesives, silicones, rubber, and ion‑exchange resins.
Although paper and board are not directly included in the ban, combination materials—such as printed or coated paper—fall within the scope when they incorporate regulated components.
Beyond BPA, the regulation bans several bisphenols and bisphenol derivatives classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic to reproduction, or endocrine‑disrupting under EU chemical safety rules, as shown below:
| Substance Name | CAS # | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bisphenol S (BPS) | 80‑09‑1 | Classified as Repr. 1B |
| 4,4’-Isobutylethylidenediphenol | 6807‑17‑6 | |
| Bisphenol AF (BPAF) | 1478‑61‑1 | |
| Bisphenol F (BPF) | 620-92-8 | Expected to be classified as hazardous |
| Phenolphthalein | 77‑09‑8 | Classified as Carc. 1B |
| Tetrabromobisphenol‑A (TBBPA) | 79‑94‑7 |
Exemptions
Implementation Timeline
With the transition period ending 20 July 2026, businesses that manufacture or rely on food‑contact materials — including packaging for food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and various consumer goods — must rapidly transition away from bisphenol‑based components that may come into direct or indirect contact with consumable products.
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Bisphenols FAQ
1. What are bisphenols?
Bisphenols are a group of synthetic chemicals used to make certain plastics and resins. The most common is Bisphenol A (BPA), but others include BPS, BPF, BPAF, and more.
They’re widely used in:
- Polycarbonate plastics (e.g., reusable bottles, food containers)
- Epoxy resins (used to coat food cans)
- Thermal paper (receipts)
2. Why are bisphenols controversial?
Bisphenols can leach into food, beverages, or skin and act as endocrine disruptors, mimicking or interfering with hormones like estrogen.
Health concerns include:
- Reproductive and developmental effects
- Metabolic disorders (e.g., obesity, diabetes)
- Cardiovascular effects
- Potential neurobehavioral effects
3. Can bisphenols be detected in the human body?
Yes. Bisphenols and their metabolites are commonly found in urine, blood, and even breast milk, indicating widespread exposure.
