This Regulation establishes new rules on the use of bisphenol A (BPA) and other bisphenols in materials and articles intended for contact with food. The main purpose is to protect human health by restricting the use of these potentially hazardous substances.The Regulation introduces a general prohibition on the use of BPA and its salts in the manufacture of food contact materials, with very limited derogations for specific critical applications where alternatives are not yet available. It also prohibits the use of other hazardous bisphenols unless specifically authorized.The key provisions include:
- A general ban on BPA use in food contact materials with limited exceptions for specific applications like polysulfone filtration membranes and large capacity tanks over 1000 liters
- Prohibition of hazardous bisphenols with specific classifications related to toxicity, unless authorized
- Requirements for declarations of compliance and verification of compliance
- Transitional periods ranging from 18-36 months for different applications to allow industry adaptation
- Reporting obligations for large companies on development of alternatives
The Regulation applies to various materials including adhesives, rubbers, plastics, printing inks, silicones, varnishes and coatings. It establishes detailed requirements for compliance verification, including testing methods and limits. The act also amends existing Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 on plastic materials and repeals Regulation (EU) 2018/213 on BPA in varnishes and coatings.
