How Food Packaging Affects Health

4. BPA

One of the most infamous compounds in food packaging is bisphenol A (BPA). This chemical is most common in hard, clear polycarbonate plastic.

Evidence points to BPA adversely impacting the brain and prostate gland, and there is some concern about other harmful effects. However, most government agencies have not banned the compound and are waiting on further research, and growing number of companies are using epoxy-based resins that contain BPA in metal can liners. Others — especially water bottle manufacturers — advertise the lack of BPA in their products.