BPA Levels Can Be Raised by Canned Foods

One serving of canned food a day can significantly raise a person’s bisphenol-A (BPA) levels, say Harvard researchers. Some studies have linked elevated levels of BPA to side effects such as heart disease, diabetes, and a higher risk of cancer.

Scientists discovered that eating one serving of canned soup a day for five days led to a more than ten-fold increase in BPA levels. This is one of the highest increases recorded in any study. Researchers say that the findings are most likely applicable to other canned goods, like sodas and juices.

Companies began phasing BPA out of baby products and other plastic containers in reaction to public concern, but the chemical is still widely used in the linings of metal cans. Some researchers say that BPA’s reputation as a health risk has been overstated.