BPA and EU Regulation 2024/3190
From 2026, all food contact materials within the EU must be BPA-free. The European Commission has adopted Regulation (EU) 2024/3190, which completely bans the use of Bisphenol A (BPA) in materials that come into contact with food. This legislation is intended to better protect consumers against potential health risks associated with BPA.
What is Bisphenol A (BPA)?
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widely used chemical in plastics and coatings that are used in food packaging. BPA is a major component of polycarbonate (PC), a type of plastic found in:
- Plastic plates and reusable water bottles
- Food storage containers
- The inner lining of canned goods, soda, and beer cans (epoxy resin coatings)
These coatings help extend the shelf life of products and prevent corrosion. However, this substance is controversial due to potential harmful effects on health.
Research shows that BPA can harm the human immune system even at very low doses. It was previously discovered that the substance could have harmful effects on hormonal balance, reduced fertility, and allergic skin reactions.
What does Regulation (EU) 2024/3190 mean?
On December 19, 2024, the European Commission adopted Regulation (EU) 2024/3190, which stipulates that BPA is no longer allowed in food contact materials. This means that companies supplying plastic packaging, food containers, or other materials must switch to BPA-free alternatives.
A transition period applies. The full legislation can be found via Regulation (EU) 2024/3190.
What does this mean for Brilliant's hygiene and food safety solutions?
Brilliant Group provides hygiene and food safety solutions to the food industry. The food contact materials that we offer largely fall into the category of 'single-use', such as packaging materials and disposable items (hygiene disposables). There is a transition period of 18 months for these materials. This means that by mid-2026, these food contact materials must be BPA-free and thus comply with the new regulations.
We are actively working with our suppliers and are in discussions with them to obtain confirmation that the items you purchase from us fully comply with the new EU regulation 2024/3190 before the end of the transition period.
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