Senate Democrats Introduce Legislation Mandating BPA Warnings on Food Packaging

Citing research studies alleging links between exposure to bisphenol A and various adverse health effects, U.S. Sens. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) have introduced the BPA in Food Packaging Right to Know Act.

“Knowledge is empowering, and knowledge about BPA ingredients can also stimulate further reforms by the marketplace,” Leahy was quoted as saying.

Among other things, the draft bill would require the secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services to conduct a safety assessment of low-dose, long-term exposure to BPA and any resulting potential negative health effects on vulnerable populations (e.g., pregnant women, children, senior adults) as well any potential adverse health effects on populations with high exposure to the chemical, such as workers involved in product manufacturing processes. The proposal would also mandate labels on food packaging containing BPA to carry the warning statement: “This food packaging contains BPA, an endocrine-disrupting chemical, according to the National Institutes of Health.” Health and advocacy groups including the Breast Cancer Fund and Center for Science in the Public Interest are reportedly championing the initiative. See Press Release of U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, March 19, 2015.

Issue 559