Large amounts of chemicals Bishpenol A (BPA) and bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) are used in the production of plastics and food packaging.  These chemicals can result in ‘endocrine disruption’ in humans and animals.  The researchers have studied urinary BPA and phthalate to learn more about how these products influence the people who use plastics and food packaging.

Urine analysis was done to determine the amount of BPA and phthalates in people with normal use of plastics and food packaging film.  Their urine was tested after they abstained from use of plastic and food wrapping.  The results were then compared.  Five families (20 people) were tested.

After the initial testing, a “wash-out” period of 3 days involved the use of fresh foods with no plastic wrap or canned food.  Urine was tested, again, and the families returned to their usual diets.  Urine was tested for a total of 8 days.

The test results reveal that abstaining from the use of canned and plastic packaged foods reduces urinary BPA by 66% and phthalates by up to 56%.  The maximum reduction of BPA was 76% and of phthalates was 93-96%.

NOTE:  Endocrine disruptors cause hormonal dysfunction in humans, resulting in sexual dysfunction and behavioral changes.  BPA is found in plastics, the linings of food cans, baby bottles and plastic water bottles.  Many products used for cooking and food preparation contain BPA.  There is some good news in that our bodies can clear it.  BPA has been studied as a possible cause for male fish producing eggs in the Potomac River flowing past Washington, DC.

Rudel, RA., et al.  Food Packaging and Bisphenol A and Bis(2-Ethlhexyl)Phthalate Exposure Findings from a Dietary Intervention.  Environ Health Perspect 2011 Jul;119(7):914-20.  Silver Spring Institute, Newton, Massachusetts, USA.

PMID:  21450549.

Summary #512.