Study Puts BPA in Plastics Under New Scrutiny

The hottest environmental toxin on the block is bisphenol A (BPA), the chemical used in the manufacture of polycarbonate drinking bottles, baby bottles, and other plastics, as well as dentistry composites and sealants and the lining of aluminum cans. Scientists express concerns about our widespread exposure to BPA through foods and drink. Health Concerns. Scientific evidence links low-level concentrations of BPA in animals and possibly humans to endocrine disruption, and recently with chronic disease in humans, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and markers of liver disease. BPA-free advocates campaign for the ban of the chemical, but the American Chemistry Council (an industry group) reports that BPA concerns are not based in science. Last year, Canada banned BPA in baby bottles.