AFP - Canada First Nation In World To Classify Bisphenol As A Toxic Chemical

[hatrack]

OTTAWA — Canada has become the first country in the world to declare as toxic Bisphenol A, a compound used in many consumer products, despite opposition by the chemical industry. The move comes only two weeks after the European Food Safety Authority said the chemical, commonly referred to as BPA and used in some baby bottles and plastic and canned food packaging, poses no health risks. France and Denmark, as well as Australia and some US states, however, have independently limited its uses.

On Wednesday, the compound was formally listed without fanfare by the Canadian government as being toxic to both the environment and human health in an official notice. "A scientific assessment of the impact of human and environmental exposure to Bisphenol A has determined that this substance constitutes or may constitute a danger to human health and the environment," said the announcement in the Canada Gazette.

Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq said Canada is the first country to take such "bold action." "Canadians can rest assured that we are working hard to monitor and manage Bisphenol A," added Environment Minister Jim Prentice.

BPA is made from petroleum and, according to the government, Canadians are exposed primarily through food packaging. Canada was also the first to ban its use in baby bottles in October 2008 after tests showed it can affect neural development and behaviour in laboratory animals exposed in the womb or very early in life. As well, it may be concern for human fertility, as it has been shown to disrupt hormone systems in animals.

E#DIT

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[Posteritatis]

1. I think I heard my prime minister bursting into flames at that news. (nt)