BPA and Phthalate Analysis | Hidden Dangers Threatening Our Health

BPA and Phthalate Danger in Contact with Food!

What are BPA and Phthalates?

• BPA ( Bisphenol A)

BPA is a chemical commonly used in the production of plastics and resins. It is often found in products such as food packaging, water bottles, cans and some medical devices. Research shows that BPA can cause hormonal imbalances, reproductive problems and cancer.

• Phthalates

Phthalates are chemical compounds used to make plastics more flexible and durable. They are most commonly found in PVC products, children's toys, food packaging, personal care products and medical devices. Scientific studies have proven that phthalates can disrupt the endocrine system, negatively affect fertility and are associated with some types of cancer.

Health Effects of BPA and Phthalates

BPA and phthalates accumulate in the body and pose various health risks. Here are the most common negative effects:

• Hormonal Balance Disorders: It creates negative effects on the hormonal system, especially due to its estrogen-like effects.
• Reproductive Health Problems: It can reduce fertility in men and women and cause early puberty.
• Cancer Risk: Some studies show that long-term exposure to BPA and phthalates may increase the risk of breast and prostate cancer.
• Obesity and Diabetes: May affect metabolism, leading to weight gain and insulin resistance.
• Effects on the Immune System: It can weaken the immune system and cause various autoimmune diseases.

How are BPA and Phthalate Analyzes Performed?

Various laboratory tests are applied to detect the presence of BPA and phthalates. These tests can be performed on food packaging, drinking water, plastic products and even biological samples (such as urine, blood) in the human body.

• Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS): This method is one of the most widely used laboratory techniques to detect the presence of BPA and phthalates by analyzing the content of plastic.

• Liquid Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS): Used to determine the levels of BPA and phthalates found in food and beverages. It provides precise and reliable results.

• ELISA Test: It is applied to detect BPA and phthalate levels in biological samples (blood, urine).

Importance for Food Safety

Detection of BPA and phthalates is of great importance for food safety. Because these chemicals can directly affect human health by leaching from plastic packaging into food. Therefore, food manufacturers and the packaging industry in particular should minimize the presence of these harmful substances through regular testing.

• Ways to Reduce BPA and Phthalates
  
  • Choose BPA-free plastic products.
  • Use glass or stainless steel food containers.
  • Avoid using plastic containers in the microwave.
  • Choose phthalate-free personal care products.
  • Carefully inspect recycled plastic products.

BPA and Phthalate Regulations

Many countries around the world have developed regulations limiting or completely banning the use of BPA and phthalates:

• The European Union has banned the use of BPA in baby bottles.
• The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has imposed restrictions on the use of BPA in certain plastics.
• In Turkey, BPA and phthalates are regulated under the Turkish Food Codex.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Packaging Analysis. We also provide services on PFAS in Packaging.

Contact us for more information.

You can follow us on LinkedIn for up-to-date news and posts about our services.

Follow our Instagram account to be informed about our latest blog posts.