The Dangers of Plastic: Is 'BPA-Free' Really Safe? A Parent's Guide.

When we started Greenvyne, our mission was clear: to create eco-friendly, safe, and practical alternatives for everyday living. But what truly sparked this journey was a realisation that hit close to home. Like many families, we relied heavily on plastics—lunchboxes, food containers, and even the wrapping around fresh produce. At first glance, they seemed harmless, especially with reassuring labels like "BPA-free."

But as I began questioning these choices, I uncovered unsettling truths about plastics, even reusable ones. Keep reading to learn more about what I discovered.

In a hurry? Here are the key things to know:

• "BPA-Free" Doesn't Mean Safe: Many plastics simply replace BPA with similar chemicals (like BPS and BPF) that carry similar health risks.
• Heat is the Enemy: Heating plastic—even "microwave-safe" types—can cause chemicals and microplastics to leach into your food.
• Microplastics Are Everywhere: These tiny particles are found in our food, water, and bodies, and are linked to inflammation and hormone disruption.
• Small Swaps, Big Impact: You don't need to be perfect. Simple changes, like switching to stainless steel food containers, significantly reduce your family's exposure.
  
  

What Are the Health Risks of BPA?

Let’s talk about BPA—Bisphenol A. This chemical, made by reacting petroleum-derived phenol and acetone with an acid catalyst, is often used to harden plastics and line food packaging. Its petroleum-based origins and widespread use have raised concerns, as it’s been linked to health risks like hormone disruption, fertility issues, and developmental concerns in children. A comprehensive review published in Environmental Health Perspectives highlights BPA's endocrine-disrupting properties and its potential impact on reproductive health and development. Naturally, this has sparked global action.

Several countries have acted on BPA: the EU and Canada banned it in baby bottles, some US states restrict it in children’s products, and Australia worked with manufacturers to voluntarily phase it out of baby bottles and infant products in 2010.

That’s good news, right? Well, not entirely. BPA might be less common in baby bottles today, but it hasn’t disappeared. It’s still used in some cans, tins, and cartons, and it can leach into food, especially when exposed to heat or acidity.

The 'BPA-Free' Myth: Are BPS and BPF Safe Alternatives?

You’ve probably seen the "BPA-free" labels on reusable plastics and felt a sense of relief—I know I did. And let’s be honest, who hasn’t felt that little thrill of scoring food storage containers on half-price at the supermarket? But here’s the thing: no matter how many we buy, it never feels like enough. That was me—until I learned about the chemicals replacing BPA, like Bisphenol S (BPS) and Bisphenol F (BPF). These substitutes are now everywhere, from water bottles to food storage containers, and here’s the kicker—they’re not necessarily safer.

Research published in Environmental Health Perspectives shows that BPS and BPF can mimic the same hormone-disrupting effects as BPA. So, while we’ve solved one problem, we’ve created another, leaving families like ours searching for better options.

While BPA has been a major focus of plastic-related concerns, it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the hidden dangers of plastics.

The Truth About Plastics

In addition to BPA, plastics often contain other potentially harmful chemicals like phthalates and lead, which serve specific purposes but come with serious risks.

Plastics aren’t just made of one material—they’re a complex cocktail of chemicals designed to serve specific purposes. Beyond BPA, other harmful substances like phthalates and lead are often present. Phthalates, for instance, are used to make plastics flexible and are found in food storage containers, drink cups, and even toys. Meanwhile, some imported or older products still contain lead, a toxin linked to cognitive impairments and developmental delays in children. Both chemicals have been shown to leach into food and drinks, particularly when plastics are exposed to heat or prolonged use.

Phthalates in Action: Heating or microwaving plastic containers can release these chemicals into food, as confirmed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Even low doses have been linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive health issues, and metabolic changes.

What’s Really Lining our Cans and Cartons?

Ever wonder how canned food stays fresh, or why cartons don’t leak? That’s thanks to their linings—often made with plastics or resins. For years, BPA was the go-to material for this. Today, many manufacturers claim to use BPA-free linings, but they often replace it with alternatives like epoxy resins, acrylic coatings, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

According to Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), some of these materials can still leach chemicals into food, especially when exposed to heat or stored for long periods. It’s not just about avoiding single-use plastics anymore; it’s about understanding the hidden dangers in all plastics.

Microplastics in Food: The Invisible Threat to Our Health

Let’s shift gears to something we can’t see—microplastics. These are tiny fragments that break off as plastics degrade. They’re found in our water, soil, air, and even food. Scientists have even detected microplastics in human blood and organs. I don’t know about you, but as a parent, that hit me hard.

A study in Science Advances revealed just how pervasive microplastics are, affecting everything from marine life to agriculture. Worse, they’re nearly impossible to get rid of, taking centuries to break down and releasing toxins in the process.

It’s not just about where they end up—it’s about what they do. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has flagged concerns about microplastics causing oxidative stress, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances in humans. These tiny particles might be invisible, but their impact on our health and the planet is anything but.

A World Full of Plastic for Kids

Understanding the risks associated with these chemicals becomes even more crucial when we consider how much plastic children interact with daily.

Our children are surrounded by plastics from the moment they’re born. Many babies are fed using plastic bottles and use plastic pacifiers, often sterilized with high heat. Studies have shown that heating plastic bottles can release microplastics into liquids. Research from Trinity College Dublin found that an infant fed with plastic bottles can ingest millions of microplastic particles daily—significantly more than adults are exposed to.

Children’s developing bodies make them especially vulnerable to these toxins. According to WHO, their metabolic systems may not efficiently eliminate harmful substances, meaning toxins can linger longer in their bodies, potentially affecting their growth and development.

The Human Body and Plastic Toxins

It’s not just about exposure—how our bodies process these toxins also plays a critical role in their long-term impact.

When plastics leach chemicals, our bodies absorb them through food, air, or water, where they enter the bloodstream. While some toxins are expelled quickly, others, like phthalates and bisphenols, can accumulate. Research by the NIH shows that individuals with compromised health conditions, such as metabolic disorders or developmental disabilities (e.g., Down syndrome), may process these toxins less efficiently. This leads to prolonged exposure and increased susceptibility to hormone disruption and immune system challenges.

Even in healthy individuals, long-term exposure to small amounts of these chemicals can cause inflammation and oxidative stress, which may contribute to chronic health conditions. This highlights the critical importance of minimising plastic exposure wherever possible—not just for environmental reasons, but for our health as well.

A Global Plastic Crisis

Here’s a reality check: the world produces over 430 million tonnes of plastic every year, according to the OECD. And only 9% of it gets recycled. The rest ends up in landfills, our oceans, or as litter.

The United Nations’ World Plastic Treaty is working toward solutions, but it’s a massive challenge. The more I learned, the more I realised—real change starts at home, with the choices we make every day.

How to Reduce Plastic Exposure: A Practical Guide for Families

After falling down this research rabbit hole, I’ll admit I felt overwhelmed. But then I realised this knowledge wasn't a burden; it was a roadmap. It gave me the power to protect my family.

The goal isn't to achieve a zero-waste life overnight. It’s about making small, deliberate choices that add up. Here is the simple, imperfect plan our family follows.

1. Start in Your Kitchen

• Swap Your Containers: This is the biggest win. Switch to stainless steel or glass containers for storing food, especially leftovers.
• Never Heat Food in Plastic: Make it a house rule. Transfer food to a ceramic or stainless steel dish before heating in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Rethink Your Wrap: Use beeswax wraps or silicone food covers instead of plastic cling wrap.
• Upgrade Your Tools: Replace plastic utensils, dish brushes, and sponges with durable, eco-friendly alternatives made from stainless steel or bamboo.

2. Shop Smarter

• Choose Fresh & Unpackaged: Opt for loose fruits and vegetables to avoid plastic bags and trays. Farmers' markets are fantastic for this.
• Avoid Canned Goods & Cartons When Possible: Reduce your reliance on foods packaged with plastic linings.
• Bring Your Own: Keep reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and coffee cups handy to minimise single-use plastics.
• Support Plastic-Free Products: Choose brands that use minimal or no plastic packaging. Your dollar is a powerful vote for the change you want to see.

3. Adopt the Mindset: Progress, Not Perfection

This is the most important step. Don't let perfection be the enemy of good. As the Zero Waste Chef Anne-Marie Bonneau says:

"We don’t need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly."

Every plastic container you replace is a victory. Every time you choose a fresh apple over a packaged one, you're making a difference. Start small, stay consistent, and celebrate your progress.

Read more about switching from plastic to stainless steel on our blog, Plastic vs Stainless Steel.