Understanding The Complexity Of BPA-Free Labels: What’s Real BPA-Free?

What is BPA and Why Is It a Concern?

BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical used in making plastics and resins. It has been used for decades in products ranging from food and drink containers to medical devices and household items. However, studies have raised concerns about BPA’s impact on health, particularly its potential to act as an endocrine disruptor. BPA exposure is linked to hormonal imbalances, developmental issues, and fertility problems, making it a top concern for consumers looking for safer, more sustainable alternatives.

The growing demand for BPA-free products is part of a larger trend toward sustainability and safer consumer goods, but it’s important to understand what “BPA-free” really means when you see it on a label.

BPA Free Doesn’t Mean Zero BPA

The term “BPA-free” can be misleading. Products with this label often mean the materials used contain trace amounts of BPA, but within a set threshold. Third-party certification bodies such as SGS, Veritas, TUV, and UL often consider a product “BPA-free” if the level of BPA present is less than 1 part per million (ppm). For the United States, this is considered an acceptable amount.

However, California has stricter standards, especially for children’s drinkware, where the threshold is lowered to 1 part per billion (ppb) under Proposition 65. This is because the state aims to minimize exposure to chemicals that could be harmful, especially to vulnerable groups like children. So, while the BPA-Free label may provide peace of mind, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee your product is completely devoid of BPA. Rather, it means that it meets the safety threshold defined by regulatory bodies. 

Producing genuine BPA-free products is challenging due to high costs, complex supply chains, contamination risks, and varying regulatory standards across regions. The need for advanced technology, rigorous testing, careful sourcing, and adherence to regulations like California’s Proposition 65 makes it a significant commitment that only a few businesses can manage.

Read more: Discover Vegan Leather Material: Eco-Friendly Options For Sustainability

The Process of Making a Real BPA-Free Product

1. Sourcing High-Quality BPA-Free Materials

The first step is to ensure that every raw material used in production is BPA-free, starting with the selection of plastics, packaging materials, and any coatings used in the product.

2. Thorough Cleaning of Equipment

Molds, machinery, and production lines must be thoroughly cleaned to remove any remnants of BPA from previous production runs. This includes using cleaning agents and processes that prevent any cross-contamination from other products produced on the same equipment

3. BPA-Free Packaging

Often overlooked, even packaging materials must be BPA-free. From the raw materials used to create the packaging to the storage containers, every step must ensure that no BPA is introduced during the process.

4. In-House Testing and Third-Party Certification

Continuous testing of the product at various stages is critical to detect any trace amounts of BPA that may have been introduced during manufacturing. Third-party certifications from recognized agencies (like SGS or UL) also confirm that the product meets regulatory standards.

How to Avoid BPA Contamination in Sustainable Products

To create truly sustainable products that are free of BPA, manufacturers need to take proactive steps. Here’s how to avoid contamination:

• Clean Machinery Thoroughly: Ensure that production equipment is regularly cleaned to remove any BPA residues from previous production runs.
  
• Source BPA-Free Materials: Work with suppliers who use BPA-free packaging, molds, and raw materials. Opt for high-quality, verified BPA-free components that won’t introduce contamination.
• Improve Factory Conditions: Review your entire production process—from raw materials handling to packaging—to ensure that all aspects of production align with sustainability goals.
  
• Implement Quality Control: Regular testing at various stages of production can help catch any BPA contamination early. Use accredited testing services to confirm that your products meet the required standards for being BPA-free.

Read more: Sustainable Branding: Best Recycled Bags As Brand Merchandise

How to Test for BPA in Your Products

To ensure your products are free from BPA, manufacturers should regularly test their goods. Here’s how to do it:

1. Third-Party Testing: Use trusted agencies like SGS, TUV, and UL for comprehensive testing. They’ll verify whether BPA is present in your product in any amount.
2. Laboratory Analysis: Laboratories can run detailed tests to identify trace amounts of BPA, ensuring that products comply with regulations like Proposition 65 and other regional standards.
3. In-House Testing: Manufacturers can also set up in-house testing systems to regularly check for BPA during production, ensuring consistent quality.

BPA-Free Product Recommendations From ODM 

There are plenty of great, sustainable products available that are certified BPA-free. Here are a few examples that you can incorporate into your lifestyle without worrying about BPA contamination:

• Stainless Steel Water Bottles: Brands should leverage gift with purchase or Marketing gift campaigns with BPA-free water bottles that are not only eco-friendly but also keep beverages cold or hot for hours.

• Bamboo Food Containers: Bamboo Food containers that are perfect for meal prep and storage, without the risk of BPA leaching into food

Bamboo Food containers that are perfect for meal prep

• Reusable Food Wraps: Sustainable Bees Wrap provide BPA-free, reusable food wraps made from organic cotton and beeswax—perfect for those looking to reduce plastic usage.

Sustainable Bees Wrap provide BPA-free

• BPA-Free Travel Mugs: reusable travel mugs that help keep drinks at the perfect temperature without compromising safety.

Reusable travel mugs that help keep drinks at the perfect temperature

Understanding BPA-Free Standards for Sustainable Products

While the “BPA-Free” label is a step in the right direction for sustainable and safe products, it’s important to understand the nuances behind this certification. “BPA-Free” doesn’t always mean zero BPA, but rather a product that meets regulated thresholds for safety. Manufacturers must go beyond using BPA-free materials and ensure a thorough cleaning process, reliable sourcing, and regular testing to create truly safe, sustainable products.

ODM experts in producing sustainable and custom products that meet brand demands. We ensure that every product we create meets the highest BPA-free standards for sustainability and safety.

Choose ODM To Get Your Own Custom Gachapon

ODM custom Gachapon services offer businesses professional customization and bulk production solutions. Contact us today to start designing your exclusive Gachapon collection and make your promotions unforgettable!