Consultation on banning BPA in food packaging
Food businesses are invited to share their thoughts on the proposed ban of bisphenol A and related chemicals in food contact materials.
Have your say on the proposed BPA ban
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has launched a consultation on a proposed ban on bisphenol A (BPA) and similar bisphenols in food contact materials. This includes plastics, coatings, adhesives, and other materials that come into contact with food.
The consultation seeks views from food businesses, packaging manufacturers, retailers, importers, and other stakeholders across Northern Ireland, England and Wales. It aims to gather evidence and comments on the proposed ban to protect consumer health and align UK regulations with the European Union.
BPA, widely used in linings for metal cans and reusable plastic containers, has raised health concerns over its effects on the immune and reproductive systems. The FSA’s preferred option is to ban both BPA and its structurally similar analogues to prevent harmful substitution and ensure consistent safety standards.
The ban would apply to new food contact materials manufactured with BPA or related substances, with transitional periods proposed to allow businesses time to adapt. Limited exemptions are proposed for specific uses where no safe alternatives currently exist.
The deadline for responses is 5pm on 24 December 2025.
Find the full consultation pack on the Food Standards Agency website.
First published 6 October 2025