Bisphenol A and Ethics

The controversy over Bisphenol A has led to many studies. These studies have been performed by industrial companies and government agencies. In some studies, the results seem inconclusive. They do not always reveal what actions should be taken next. The interpretation of the results for a study depends on the scientist who performs it; therefore, there will be studies concluding that Bisphenol A is harmful while others conclude that it is not. It is also no surprise that most studies funded by industrial companies will be interpreted with a bias towards Bisphenol A being safe.

Anything in excess can act as a poison in the human body. Even water, the very thing that all life depends on, can be harmful if consumed in excess. The focus on BPA should not be arguing about whether it is harmful or not, because in high levels it no doubt will be. Instead, the focus should be on finding the proper limits of exposure. In addition, all possible actions should be taken to limit exposure. Toxicology studies have been performed on mice, rats, rabbits, and guinea pigs. While these toxicology studies might tell us the exposure limits for small animals, they do not directly tell us the appropriate limits of exposure for humans. It would be unethical to test exposure limits on humans. So, we have a dilemma. In the case of a dilemma, one looks at both the positive and negative consequences. From these considerations, it is the obligation of those in charge to take an ethical action.


What ethical actions should take place?

• When in doubt, it is better to err on the safe side. In 2008, Canada banned Bisphenol A from being used in baby bottles. An article in the Washington Post discussing this can be viewed here. The article discusses why Canada decided to act as they did. The article also discusses the steps the United States and individual companies have taken as a result.
• The public should be informed of the products they are buying. Products that contain BPA should have a warning label. Just as consumers have the right to know the nutritional information of products, consumers have the right to know what chemicals were used to make it. Consumers should also be aware of which plastics are designed for one time use or multiple use.

Additional Research

While researching, I found the National Toxicology Program which is part of the Department of Health and Human Services. The National Toxicology Program aides the Food and Drug Administration in setting exposure limits. On their website they post toxicology reports and emails that they receive from the public. I came across one email that makes several excellent points.
The website for the National Toxicology Program can be viewed here.
Click here to view the email.