BPA-Free Plastics May Pose Similar Health Risks With BPS Alternative
This is an editorial summary of research originally reported by Endocrinology Journal / University of Calgary. ProductSafer does not claim ownership of the underlying research. All intellectual property belongs to the original publishers.
BPA-free plastics often contain BPS, a chemical that disrupts heart function and mimics estrogen just like the banned BPA does. If you've switched to BPA-free products thinking they're safer, you may still be exposed to harmful chemicals with similar effects.
After widespread concern about bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical used to harden plastics and line food cans, manufacturers pivoted to "BPA-free" products using substitutes like bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (BPF). The problem: these alternatives appear to carry many of the same risks.
A 2019 study published in *Endocrinology* found that BPS caused irregular heartbeats in female rats at concentrations found in human blood samples. A separate study from the University of Calgary showed that BPS altered brain development in zebrafish in ways that mirror BPA's effects.
- BPS and BPF are structurally similar to BPA and bind to estrogen receptors
- They are at least as resistant to degradation as BPA, meaning they persist in the environment
- They leach from plastics at similar or higher rates than BPA when exposed to heat
- Water bottles and food containers labeled "BPA-free"
- Thermal receipt paper (absorbed through skin)
- Canned food linings
- Baby bottles (some brands)
- Glass or stainless steel containers for food and drink
- Avoid microwaving food in any plastic container
- Decline printed receipts where possible, or wash hands after handling them
What you can doAI-generated
- ✓Check whether your reusable water bottles and food containers labeled "BPA-free" are made of glass or stainless steel instead, since BPS in BPA-free plastics leaches at similar or higher rates than the original BPA when heated.
- ✓Transfer canned foods to glass containers if you plan to store them, since BPS is commonly found in can linings and can leach into food over time.
- ✓Avoid microwaving food in any plastic container, including those marked "BPA-free," because heat causes BPS and other bisphenols to leach from the plastic at higher rates.
- ✓When purchasing baby bottles, specifically verify they are made of glass or stainless steel rather than plastic labeled BPA-free, since BPS carries similar risks to cardiac function and hormone disruption as the original BPA.
Always consult a healthcare professional for personal medical advice.
Safer alternatives
Upgrade to glass or stainless steel water bottles — zero plastic leaching
Affiliate links: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Read the full report at the original source
Endocrinology Journal / University of CalgaryWas this finding useful?
Community discussion
Join the discussion
Comments are reviewed before appearing publicly.