BPA, info on plastics and canned food

I was recently asked if canned tomatoes are ok to eat.

If you are not aware, there has been data that states BPA can be found in canned foods.

First here is a little info about BPA (Bisphenol A). It is used to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resin. It has been around since the 1800’s. It affects the endocrine system. It is linked to breast cancer, decreases testosterone, imbalanced hormone levels, and maladies for the body. It’s mostly effects fetuses, babies and children. It has also been connected to with cancer, obesity, diabetes, neurological issues, thyroid hormone receptor, heart problems, fertility/sexuality difficulties and DNA alteration.

Plastics: #1, #2, #4, #5, and #6 are unlikely to contain BPA, though #1 and #6 are not suggested for repeated human consumption.  #7 is a catch-all category that often contains BPA.

BPA-containing epoxy resins are found in the inside coating of most food and beverage cans. All canned foods should be avoided.

High acidity foods increase the rate at which BPA enters food.  This is why people are being told not to consume canned tomatoes, soda and beans.

A good alternative to canned tomatoes and beans are glass. This would be a great product to can yourself in glass jars.

Not to be mean, but if you drink a lot of soda, chances are that you don’t really care about your body. Just alone soda has horrible affects on your body. I enjoy a good soda about once a year…this is usually at our favorite root beer brewery, so I am not worried about this.

Do your research; there are some cans that state “BPA free”.  Keep your eyes out and if you only consume canned tomatoes and don’t buy anything else with BPA then you will probably be ok.

I hope this helps you all learn a little about BPA, I know I am not more educated in this area!

Just remember #2, 4 and 5 are the best plastic numbers and high acidic canned foods should be avoid if possible!