Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial chemical used to make certain plastics and epoxy resins, which are commonly used to coat the inside of food and beverage cans. This lining prevents the can from corroding and protects the food from spoiling. However, small amounts of BPA can leach from the lining into the food, particularly when the contents are heated or contain high acidity.
What is Bisphenol A (BPA) and Why Is It a Concern?
For decades, BPA has been a topic of concern for health advocates due to its potential as an endocrine disruptor. This means it can interfere with the body’s hormone system, potentially mimicking or blocking natural hormones. While regulatory bodies like the FDA consider current levels of BPA exposure safe for human health, some researchers and consumer groups cite studies linking low-dose BPA exposure to various health issues, including reproductive disorders, cardiovascular problems, and an increased risk for certain cancers. These conflicting views have fueled a growing demand from consumers for transparent information about which canned foods have BPA.
Canned Foods with Historically High BPA Content
While BPA can potentially be found in any can lined with epoxy, multiple studies have identified certain food categories with consistently higher levels of BPA. The amount of BPA that leaches into food can vary based on the can’s composition, the food’s characteristics (like acidity), and how the can is handled (e.g., heating).
Canned Seafood and Meat
Several reports indicate that canned tuna and other types of canned fish often contain some of the highest levels of BPA. A Health Canada survey found canned tuna products had some of the highest average BPA levels detected. Similarly, canned luncheon meats and other processed canned meats have also been flagged for containing BPA.
Canned Soups and Other Processed Foods
Another category with a high probability of containing BPA is canned soups, particularly condensed varieties. Studies have found significant levels in condensed soups compared to ready-to-serve options. Other processed items, such as pasta with tomato sauce, chili with beans, and evaporated milk, have also been listed in past testing as containing BPA.
High-Acid Canned Products
Acidic foods, such as canned tomatoes, have been a particularly difficult challenge for manufacturers trying to go BPA-free. The acid can react with alternative can linings, affecting taste and product integrity. As a result, some companies that have switched to BPA-free options for most of their product line may still use epoxy liners for their highly acidic foods.
The Shift Towards Alternatives
Consumer pressure and evolving safety concerns have pushed many food manufacturers to transition away from BPA-lined cans. A key takeaway for consumers is that not all brands have made this change, and even among those that have, the transition may not be complete across their entire product line. Brands like Amy's Kitchen, Muir Glen, and Wild Planet Foods are often cited for their commitment to using BPA-free cans, though product formulations can change, and it is always wise to double-check.
Alternative can linings include various polymers, such as acrylic and polyester, and plant-based oleoresin. However, some reports have raised concerns about the safety of certain replacement chemicals, such as Bisphenol S (BPS) and Bisphenol F (BPF), which have been found to have similar properties to BPA and are sometimes used as substitutes. Therefore, looking for transparent brands that disclose their alternative linings is a good practice.
Comparison Table: Canned Food Categories and BPA Likelihood
| Food Category | Likelihood of Containing BPA (Historically) | Notes & Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| High-Acid Foods (Tomatoes) | High, but decreasing | Challenging for manufacturers to find safe alternatives that don't affect taste. Check specific brands. |
| Canned Fish (Tuna) | High | Consistently shown to have higher levels in many tests. |
| Canned Condensed Soups | High | Higher levels found compared to ready-to-serve versions due to processing differences. |
| Canned Meats | Medium to High | Varies by product and brand. Often flagged in older studies. |
| Canned Vegetables (Non-Acidic) | Medium | BPA presence varies significantly by brand and product type. |
| Canned Fruit | Low | Historically lower levels detected, but still not always zero. |
| Organic Canned Goods | Varies | Being organic does not guarantee a BPA-free can lining. Check brand policies. |
How to Reduce Your Exposure to BPA from Canned Foods
Minimizing exposure requires conscious choices during your grocery shopping and food preparation. Here are some actionable tips:
- Prioritize Fresh and Frozen Foods: Whenever possible, opt for fresh, seasonal produce, or use frozen vegetables and fruits, which do not come in metal cans with epoxy linings.
- Choose Glass or Tetra Pak Packaging: For items like tomatoes and broths, choose those packaged in glass jars or Tetra Pak cartons, which are reliable BPA-free options.
- Find Verified BPA-Free Brands: Look for brands that explicitly label their products as BPA-free and investigate what alternative linings they use. Environmental and consumer health groups, like the Center for Environmental Health, often publish lists and information on these brands.
- Avoid Heating Canned Food: Never heat canned food directly in the can. Transfer the food to a glass or ceramic container before microwaving or cooking.
- Rinse Canned Contents: For some foods like beans, draining and rinsing the contents can help reduce the amount of BPA, as the chemical is often more concentrated in the liquid.
- Stay Informed: The landscape of food packaging is constantly evolving. Keep up to date with new reports from reliable sources regarding can linings and potential alternatives. A good resource for staying current is the Center for Environmental Health at ceh.org.
Conclusion
The presence of BPA in canned foods is a complex issue, with historical data showing its prevalence in a wide range of products, including seafood, soups, and high-acid items like tomatoes. However, increased consumer demand has driven many manufacturers to transition to BPA-free cans, although the safety of all replacement linings is still under debate. By prioritizing fresh foods, choosing non-can alternatives like glass and Tetra Pak, and seeking out brands with verified BPA-free policies, consumers can effectively reduce their dietary exposure to BPA and make more informed choices about the products they buy.
