Canada's Announcement Regarding BPA is Contrary to the Weight of Worldwide Scientific Evidence

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Oct 13, 2010, 07:18 ET

WASHINGTON, Oct. 13 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In response to the Canadian Minister of the Environment today announcing the decision to list bisphenol A (BPA) as a toxic substance under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, Steven G. Hentges, Ph.D., Polycarbonate/BPA Global Group of the American Chemistry Council (ACC) made the following comments:

"Just days after the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) once again confirmed that BPA is safe for use in food-contact items, Environment Canada's announcement is contrary to the weight of worldwide scientific evidence, unwarranted and will unnecessarily confuse and alarm the public. This puts Environment Canada at odds with the recent conclusions of EFSA, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, all of which have concluded that BPA is safe in contact with food. The decision also appears to contradict the very recent opinion of Health Canada, which stated in August that 'the current dietary exposure to BPA through food packaging is not expected to pose a health risk to the general population, including newborns and infants.'"

About BPA

BPA is one of the most thoroughly tested chemicals in commerce today. Extensive scientific studies have shown that BPA is quickly metabolized, excreted and does not accumulate in the body.

Plastics made with BPA contribute safety and convenience to our daily lives because of their durability, clarity and shatter-resistance. Can liners and food-storage containers made with BPA are essential components to helping protect the safety of packaged foods and preserving products from spoilage and contamination. ACC remains committed to consumer safety, and will continue to review new scientific studies concerning the safety of BPA.

www.americanchemistry.com

The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care^®, common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues, and health and environmental research and product testing. The business of chemistry is a $674 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation's economy. It is one of the nation's largest exporters, accounting for ten cents out of every dollar in U.S. exports. Chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development. Safety and security have always been primary concerns of ACC members, and they have intensified their efforts, working closely with government agencies to improve security and to defend against any threat to the nation's critical infrastructure.

SOURCE American Chemistry Council