Glass Packaging Institute Applauds FDA’s Decision to Ban BPA from Baby Formula Packaging

[Alexandria, Virginia, July 11, 2013] On July 11, 2013, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it is amending the food additive regulations to no longer provide for the use of Bisphenol A (BPA)-based epoxy resins as coatings in packaging for infant formula. This decision comes in response to a petition filed in 2012 by Senator-elect Edward Markey, who was then a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. In September 2012, the Glass Packaging Institute (GPI), the trade association representing the North American glass container industry, submitted a letter to the FDA in support of the Markey petition. Following is a statement from GPI President Lynn Bragg in response to the FDA’s action.

“GPI welcomes the FDA’s decision to ban the use of BPA in infant formula cans. This action not only serves to further protect infants and small children from the potential dangers of BPA, but also to recognize and address ongoing consumer concerns about the safety of BPA-containing products.

“As the FDA considers further actions with respect to BPA, there remains a larger question: should steps be taken to protect the safety of all consumers by limiting BPA exposure in a broader range of products? When consumers eat foods or drink beverages in packaging lined with or containing BPA, they may increase their exposure to a chemical that has prompted extensive study and regulatory action around the globe, including significant restrictions on uses deemed acceptable by several foreign government regulatory authorities.

“GPI supports the FDA’s announcement, but would encourage the agency to expand the scope of its review beyond just infants, small children and other vulnerable populations.”

###

About GPI

The Glass Packaging Institute (GPI) is the trade association representing the North American glass container industry. Through GPI, glass container manufacturers speak with one voice to advocate industry standards, promote sound environmental policies and educate packaging professionals. GPI member companies manufacture glass containers for food, beverage, cosmetic and many other products. GPI also has associate members that represent a broad range of suppliers and closure manufacturers.