About this article
BPA is found in countless food packaging products worldwide, but research links it to serious health concerns. In this article, we explain what BPA is, what the EU ban means in practice, and how to identify BPA-free alternatives.
13 Apr 2026
4 min
Ruben Matser
BPA explained: What it is and where it’s used?
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic chemical primarily used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. You’ll find it in everyday items like reusable drinking bottles, cups, and food containers — but also in the epoxy linings of food and drink packaging and even in the coatings of drinking water pipes. BPA’s reach extends even further, appearing in inks, textiles, paints, building materials, and toys, making it one of the most widely used industrial chemicals in the world.
Why is BPA being banned in the EU?
BPA exposure is more widespread than most people realise. A Horizon 2020 research initiative detected BPA in the urine of 92% of adult participants across 11 European countries. Crucially, these levels exceeded European safety thresholds.
Research links BPA to damage to the reproductive system and negative effects on the immune system. In response, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) significantly lowered the acceptable daily intake for BPA, paving the way for stricter regulation across the EU.
The EU regulation behind banning BPA in food contact materials
From July 2026, BPA-containing polycarbonate will be prohibited in food contact products across the EU. The ban is enshrined in Regulation (EU) 2024/3190, updating the existing framework on food contact materials, with some transitional arrangements for specific applications.
Is your food packaging at risk from the BPA ban?
The materials most affected by the ban are polycarbonate, epoxy resins, and certain coatings, given that all are commonly manufactured using BPA. For foodservice and catering businesses using polycarbonate drinkware, the switch is quite straightforward. Verive’s PETG glasses offer a like-for-like alternative — same appearance, same sturdiness, no BPA. Read more in our recently published article on PETG.
BPA-free alternatives for reusable food packaging
The good news is that BPA-free alternatives are widely available and well-proven. Polypropylene (PP), PET, PETG, glass, and stainless steel are all suitable for reusable drinkware and containers, and none of them contain BPA.
Verive’s reusable food packaging range offers a broad selection of BPA-free products, from PP and PETG cups to PP meal boxes, plates, and bowls.
Discover our BPA-free reusables
Questions about BPA-free packaging? We’re here to help
Have questions about BPA-free packaging? Future-proofing your food packaging doesn’t have to be complicated, and Verive is happy to help you navigate the transition. Get in touch with our team at info@verive.eu or via our contact page. Stay up to date on food packaging news by following us on LinkedIn.
