"BPA-free" isn't enough: What parents really should know

You buy a new drinking bottle, turn it over, see the "BPA-free" symbol – and think: good, that's settled. But the label only answers one of several relevant questions.

What "BPA-free" actually means

"BPA-free" means exactly that: no Bisphenol A. It does not automatically mean that a product is free of other bisphenols – such as BPS (Bisphenol S) or BPF (Bisphenol F), which are used as substitutes in some plastics. It also says nothing about the general material quality, durability, or behavior after prolonged use.

Why BPA became an issue in the first place

Bisphenol A was used for decades in the production of hard polycarbonate plastic. The concern: BPA can act like a hormone and transfer into the body – especially when plastic is heated or gets scratches. Since 2011, BPA has been banned in baby bottles in the EU, and most manufacturers have since removed it from children's products.

The problem with substitutes

When BPA is removed, it is replaced by something else. Often by BPS or BPF – structurally related compounds. Early studies suggest that these substitutes may have similar properties to BPA. Research is not yet conclusive.

"BPA-free" describes what is not included. What is used instead is not on the packaging.

And then there's microplastics

Another point often overlooked when it comes to plastic and children's health: microplastics. Plastic products release small particles during use – due to mechanical abrasion when opening, cleaning, and daily use. The more intensively a product is used, the more abrasion can occur over time.

Children's products are used particularly intensively. A drinking bottle that is filled daily, thrown into a school bag, and rinsed in the evening experiences more mechanical stress than a comparable adult product.

Studies have detected more microplastic particles in drinks from plastic bottles than in those from glass or stainless steel. The long-term health consequences are not yet fully researched – but less plastic contact at least reduces an avoidable source.

What offers more guidance

Products tested according to the EU Food Contact Material Regulation (EU 10/2011) have undergone broader material testing than those that only bear the "BPA-free" label.

Materials that structurally contain no bisphenols and release no microplastics through abrasion are stainless steel and glass. For both, these questions do not arise.

When plastic is still a sensible choice

Especially for small children, where the weight of stainless steel can be a real obstacle, plastic is often the more pragmatic choice. In this case: do not heat in the microwave, see scratches as a signal to replace, and prefer EU 10/2011 certification.

What parents can look out for

Treat "BPA-free" as a minimum criterion, not as proof of quality.

For plastic, pay attention to EU food contact material certification.

Consider stainless steel or glass for daily use products.

Do not heat plastic products at high temperatures.

Visible scratches on the inside are a signal to replace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is "BPA-free" synonymous with safe for children? "BPA-free" means that no Bisphenol A is contained. Substitutes like BPS or BPF are often used, and their long-term effects are still being researched. For complete freedom from bisphenols, stainless steel or glass are suitable.

What are microplastics and why are they relevant for children's products? Microplastics are created by mechanical abrasion during normal use of plastic products. Children's products are used intensively, which increases abrasion. Stainless steel does not release microplastics during normal use.

What is the difference between "BPA-free" and EU food contact material certification? "BPA-free" is a single exclusion criterion. The EU Food Contact Material Regulation (EU 10/2011) is a broader test of material suitability for food contact.

Are stainless steel products free of bisphenols and microplastics? Food-grade 304 stainless steel contains no bisphenols and does not release microplastics during normal use. It is considered a proven material for food contact.

Do I have to replace all plastic products immediately? No. Well-maintained, certified plastic products are fine for everyday use. As soon as they show scratches, discoloration, or persistent odor, replacement is sensible.

Summary for parents

• "BPA-free" only means: no Bisphenol A – not: no bisphenols in total
• The effects of substitutes BPS and BPF are not yet conclusively researched
• Microplastics can be formed by abrasion during normal use of plastic products
• Stainless steel contains no bisphenols and does not release microplastics
• EU Food Contact Material Regulation offers more guidance than the "BPA-free" label alone