Is there BPA in canned salmon and how to choose safe options?

December 8, 2025 •

4 min read

While BPA usage in can linings has significantly decreased, some canned salmon products may still contain traces of Bisphenol A, an industrial chemical used to prevent corrosion. Historically, canned foods were a major source of human exposure to BPA, which has been linked to various health concerns. Today, consumer demand has driven many manufacturers to switch to BPA-free alternatives, though vigilance is still warranted when selecting products.

Quick Summary

This article explores the historical and current use of BPA in canned salmon linings, examining the move towards safer packaging materials and the potential health effects of chemical exposure. It provides guidance on identifying BPA-free brands and highlights safe alternatives for consumers.

Key Points

BPA is an Endocrine Disruptor: This chemical, historically used in can linings, mimics estrogen and has been linked to reproductive and neurological health concerns.
Widespread Reduction, Not Elimination: Pushed by consumer demand, most manufacturers have moved away from BPA-based linings, but some products may still contain it.
Look for "BPA-Free" Labels: The most direct way to identify safer canned salmon is to check for explicit "BPA-Free" labeling on the can.
Alternatives to Canned Salmon Exist: Consider products in foil pouches, glass jars, or purchasing fresh/frozen salmon to avoid can linings altogether.
Replacement Chemicals Pose Unknown Risks: Many BPA-free alternatives, like BPS and BPF, are being used, but their long-term health effects are not fully understood, a concept known as regrettable substitution.
Reputable Brands Often Prioritize Safe Packaging: Brands known for sustainable and wild-caught salmon are more likely to offer BPA-free options.
Research Independent Findings: Organizations like EWG and CEH conduct independent testing, providing valuable information on brands and packaging materials.

Understanding the BPA Issue in Canned Goods

For decades, Bisphenol A (BPA) was a primary component in the epoxy resin used to line most food and drink cans. This lining serves to prevent corrosion of the metal and extends the shelf life of the contents. However, studies have shown that BPA can leach from the can lining into the food, especially with acidic or fatty contents.

Public awareness and scientific research have raised concerns over BPA's potential health effects. BPA is known as an endocrine disruptor, meaning it can mimic hormones like estrogen and interfere with the body's natural hormonal balance. Animal studies have linked BPA exposure to reproductive and neurological issues, while some human observational studies suggest links to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other health problems. This has fueled a strong consumer-led movement away from BPA-containing packaging.

The Shift Towards BPA-Free Packaging

In response to consumer pressure and potential health risks, many manufacturers have voluntarily phased out BPA-based linings. According to the Can Manufacturers Institute, a significant majority of food cans produced today in the US use alternative coatings. These replacements often include acrylic, polyester, or olefin polymers.

However, this shift has introduced a new set of questions. The safety of these alternative chemical replacements, such as Bisphenol S (BPS) and Bisphenol F (BPF), is not yet fully understood. Some studies suggest that BPS and BPF have similar endocrine-disrupting properties to BPA, a phenomenon known as regrettable substitution, where one harmful chemical is replaced by a similar one. The full health impacts of these alternative linings are still under review.

How to Identify BPA-Free Canned Salmon

For consumers seeking to minimize exposure, identifying BPA-free canned salmon is easier than it used to be. The most straightforward approach is to look for explicit labeling. Many brands proudly advertise "BPA-Free Can Lining" or similar phrasing on their packaging to meet consumer demand. Some brands, like Wild Planet and Bumble Bee, have publicly committed to BPA-free canning processes for their salmon products. Loki Fish Company also specifically mentions their BPA-free cans.

However, relying solely on labels has limitations. Not all manufacturers explicitly state their use of BPA or its absence. Furthermore, the alternatives used might not be disclosed. Independent testing by organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) or the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) can offer additional insights, but their reports may not always be up-to-date with current product formulations.

Best Practices for Choosing Safer Canned Salmon

Read the Label: Prioritize brands that clearly state their can linings are BPA-free. This is the most reliable first step.
Research Specific Brands: Use resources like the EWG or manufacturer websites to research the packaging practices of specific brands you purchase frequently.
Consider Sustainable and Wild-Caught: Opting for reputable brands that focus on sustainability and quality, like wild-caught salmon, often correlates with more mindful packaging practices.
Explore Alternatives: If you remain concerned, consider alternatives like salmon packaged in foil pouches, glass jars, or even buying frozen or fresh salmon to avoid the issue entirely.

Canned Salmon vs. Alternative Packaging Comparison


Feature	Canned Salmon (Standard)	Canned Salmon (BPA-Free)	Salmon in Foil Pouch	Fresh or Frozen Salmon
BPA Risk	Possible, especially if not labeled otherwise	Minimal risk of BPA exposure	Extremely low risk of BPA, as pouches use different linings	No risk from packaging
Shelf Life	Long (years)	Long (years)	Long (years)	Limited (days for fresh), moderate (months for frozen)
Price	Generally affordable	Can be slightly higher	Often comparable or slightly higher than standard cans	Varies greatly, often more expensive
Convenience	Highly convenient, shelf-stable	Highly convenient, shelf-stable	Highly convenient, lightweight	Requires refrigeration and cooking preparation
Nutrient Retention	High, though some minerals can migrate from the can	High, with nutrients preserved through the canning process	High, preserves nutrients effectively	Excellent, retains all natural nutrients
Taste Profile	Distinctly canned flavor; can have softer texture	Similar to standard canned, but depends on brand	Can have a fresher, less processed taste	Best flavor, freshest texture

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

The question of whether there is BPA in canned salmon is complex, reflecting a changing industry. While BPA has not been universally eliminated from all can linings, significant progress has been made, with many brands actively using BPA-free alternatives. However, the safety of these newer substitutes is not yet fully guaranteed, suggesting that consumer awareness remains crucial. By checking for explicit BPA-free labeling, researching brands, and considering alternative packaging formats like foil pouches or glass, consumers can make more informed decisions to reduce potential chemical exposure.

Additional Resources

EWG's Guide to Avoiding BPA: https://www.ewg.org/healthy-living/guide-avoiding-bpa
Mayo Clinic's Overview of BPA Concerns: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/bpa/faq-20058331

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all cans of salmon contain BPA. Due to consumer concern, many manufacturers have switched to BPA-free linings. However, unless the can is explicitly labeled as BPA-free, it is possible it may still contain traces.

BPA-free can linings are made of various materials, most commonly non-BPA acrylic or polyester epoxies, or olefin polymers. Some manufacturers also use oleoresin coatings for certain foods.

While BPA-free linings eliminate exposure to BPA, the safety of the replacement chemicals is still under investigation. Some alternatives, like BPS and BPF, have similar hormone-disrupting properties.

The best way is to look for a clear "BPA-Free" label on the packaging. If it's not labeled, you can check the manufacturer's website or consult reports from independent health and environmental organizations.

Rinsing canned foods may reduce exposure to BPA that has leached into the brine or water, but it will not remove BPA that has already been absorbed into the food itself. Using fresh or frozen salmon is the only way to ensure zero exposure from the packaging.

Several brands, including Wild Planet and Bumble Bee, have been noted for using BPA-free cans for their salmon products. Loki Fish Company also offers BPA-free options.

Yes, salmon packaged in foil pouches or glass jars typically does not use BPA-based linings. Foil pouches, in particular, are often cited as a low-risk alternative to traditional cans.