BPA Levels Found To Be High In Some U.S. Canned, Plastic-Packaged Foods

The chemical bisphenol A (BPA), used to line metal food cans and to make plastic containers such as baby bottles, has been associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and male sexual dysfunction in exposed workers. But no studies had taken a close look at BPA exposure in packaged foods. Now U.S. and German scientists measured BPA levels in 105 fresh and canned foods, plastic packaged foods, and in pet foods in cans and plastic packages. The researchers detected BPA in 63 of 105 samples, but said the BPA levels “did not reach concentrations ... associated with adverse health effects.” Canned Del Monte Fresh Cut Green Beans had the highest level of BPA, while canned Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup 2.5% Fat had no BPA. The researchers urged continued monitoring of the food and water supply.