Bisphenol A (BPA)

Why am I being warned about potential exposure to BPA?
  • BPA is on the Proposition 65 list for reproductive toxicity.
    • Exposure of laboratory animals to BPA during pregnancy harmed the developing offspring.
    • Exposure of laboratory animals to BPA also harmed the female reproductive system, including the ovaries and eggs.
  • California’s Proposition 65 requires businesses to warn people before exposing them to a significant amount of a chemical listed under Proposition 65 for cancer or reproductive toxicity.
What is BPA?

BPA is a chemical used in a variety of plastics, resins, and coatings. Sources of exposure to BPA include:

  • Polycarbonate plastic items: some water bottles, jugs for water dispensers, dishes, utensils, cookware, food storage containers, and electric kettles. Items made of this hard plastic often have recycle code 3 or 7.
    • BPA may be present in baby bottles and sippy cups made before July 2012.
  • Some polyvinyl chloride plastics (sometimes called PVC or vinyl), such as some plastic food wrap and vinyl gloves.
  • Some thermal paper that has a glossy surface and is often used for receipts from cash registers, gas pumps, and automated teller machines (ATMs).
  • Some linings in metal food and drink cans, jar lids, and bottle caps.
    • Many manufacturers have removed BPA from their canned food and drink linings. However, some products may still contain BPA and have Proposition 65 warnings for the chemical.
    • BPA has also been detected in some products without a BPA warning.
  • Some cotton and synthetic textile items, including t-shirts, underwear, socks, and pantyhose.
What are some ways that exposure to BPA can occur?
How does exposure to bisphenol A occur?
How can I reduce my exposure to BPA?
  • Store food and drinks in glass or stainless steel containers, rather than plastic ones.
  • If you use polycarbonate plastic containers or tableware:
    • Avoid using them for hot food and drinks.
    • Avoid placing them in the microwave oven or the dishwasher.
  • If you bottle-feed your infant, use glass bottles.
  • Choose more fresh food and less canned food, if possible.
    • If you choose canned products, look for ones that do not have Proposition 65 warnings for BPA.
    • Where possible, drain and rinse canned fruits and vegetables before eating. This may reduce the amount of BPA in the food, if any is present. Do hot heat this food in the can.
  • If possible, wash new clothes before wearing them, especially items worn directly on the skin.
  • Minimize your exposure to thermal paper and dust.
    • Wash your hands and your child’s hands frequently with soap and water, especially before preparing food and before eating.
    • Clean surfaces and floors regularly.  Use a damp cloth, wet mop, or vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, if possible.
  • If your dentist recommends sealants or fillings, ask about BPA-free options.
For more information:

General Fact Sheets and Resources

Proposition 65

Updated April 2026
Fact Sheet - Bisphenol A (BPA)

Related Chemical(s)

Related Product or Place

References
Chemical