Chickpeas in a jar: Avoid health risks from BPA!

Chickpeas in a jar: Avoid health risks from BPA!

A recent study highlighted the health risks of bisphenol A (BPA) in food. Studies show that BPA not only affects fertility, but can also disrupt the development of an unborn organism. This is particularly concerning because BPA has been linked to various health risks, including increased risk of breast cancer, obesity, and neurological and behavioral problems in children. The EU imposed a ban on BPA in food contact materials at the beginning of the year, but a tolerated migration level remains in place during the transition period. The Association for Consumer Information (VKI) therefore recommends purchasing food made from glass in order to minimize exposure to BPA, as disposable products with BPA-containing paints may be marketed until July 20, 2028 Small newspaper reported.

The study particularly focused on chickpeas, a popular food that is rich in protein and fiber. Five out of six organic products in jars tested received a “very good” rating, while one received a “good” rating. However, the chickpeas from conventional products had a significant concentration of nickel. This can be achieved by eating just 170 grams of chickpeas, which is particularly dangerous for children. Nickel passes from the soil into plants and fruits, with conventional products from brands such as Billa Immer Gut, Kitchin and Cirio identified as contaminated.

The risks of bisphenol A

BPA, a raw material used to make polycarbonate and epoxy resins, is found in a variety of everyday products, including canned food. A BUND study showed that 74% of the food samples tested, including tuna and tomatoes, were contaminated with BPA. The values ​​varied from 7.4 µg/kg to 510 µg/kg, which is alarming. Products from well-known supermarkets such as Lidl, Rewe and Aldi are particularly affected. In order to understand the migration of BPA, factors such as temperature fluctuations and the fat and acid content play a crucial role.

An increased health risk due to frequent consumption of contaminated canned food could indicate a variety of health problems. BPA acts as an endocrine disruptor, which can affect hormone balance. The feared health consequences include a weakening of the immune system, an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and hormonal-related cancers. BUND is therefore calling for a comprehensive EU-wide ban on BPA in food packaging to protect consumers.

Long-term measures and outlook

The European Environment Agency examined urine samples in eleven European countries in 2023 and detected BPA in 92% of participants. In order to minimize the risks, the EU decided in June 2024 to allow the ban on BPA in food contact materials to come into force in December 2024, including other bisphenols such as bisphenol S. The BUND also demands that manufacturers and retailers replace packaging containing BPA with safe alternatives.

The health risks and the widespread use of BPA make it necessary to intensively address safe forms of food. The findings from the studies underline the importance of paying attention to the packaging when buying food and, if possible, using glass products. This is the only way to minimize the health impact of harmful chemicals such as BPA Federal emphasized.