Bisphenol A (BPA) is an organic synthetic compound used to manufacture phenolic resins, polyacrylates and polyesters, but mainly for the production of epoxy resins and polycarbonates.
The highest production of BPA has been recorded in China, India, Russia and Mexico, mainly due to their high demand for products made with epoxy resins and polycarbonates. The former are widely used as protective coatings in construction and some food and beverage containers, as well as adhesives. On the other hand, polycarbonates are used to make water bottles, toys, bottles and products with medical applications, thanks to their strength and hardness, although they are less and less used in products that are in contact with food.
But... Why has BPA been associated with harmful effects?
BPA has been classified as an endocrine disruptor that is capable of altering hormone concentrations and metabolism. Among the impacts it has had on humans are: cardiovascular problems, problems in the development of mammary glands, low sperm production, fetal growth restriction, anxiety, depression, polycystic ovary syndrome, obesity, dermatitis and cancer (breast and prostate).
In recent years, government research and the FDA have conducted studies to clarify whether the use of BPA in materials that are in contact with food is really recommended. The results have indicated that BPA is safe at the very low doses that are used and/or consumed. So, What happens to the BPA that is ingested? It is absorbed by the intestinal wall and converted to substances with no biological activity that are eliminated within 24 hours.
In Penka one of our main objectives is to keep our customers and consumers well informed at the same time that we always seek the greatest well-being in their health. All Penka products are manufactured from a biobased composite of agave fibers in a polymer matrix and are completely BPA-free, since none of the elements that make up our products contain it.
We invite you to view our complete catalog of products.
By: Andrea Zambrano
