Are you a beer connoisseur - or simply a casual consumer - that loves the convenience of enjoying a canned craft beer? You might be concerned to learn that a potentially hazardous chemical called bisphenol (BPA) is potentially lurking in that aluminum can. Read this article to learn more about BPA and the threat it might pose to your health when you enjoy your favorite Pale Ale.
For some people, one of the most reassuring aspects of beer is the fact that it’s made from natural ingredients. But if you take a closer look, you might be concerned to find that some beers are packaged in cans with a plastic-like coating inside them containing a chemical called “bisphenol A”. BPA, as it is commonly known, has been linked to a number of health problems. Could it pose a risk to those who enjoy beer on a regular basis? This article will discuss the potential health effects associated with consuming beer that has been packaged in cans containing BPA, and what steps you can take to reduce your exposure to this potentially hazardous chemical.
BPA, or bisphenol A, is a chemical compound that is used to make certain types of plastic, including polycarbonate and polyester. It is also found in some food and drink cans, where it is used as an epoxy lining to prevent the contents from coming into contact with metal. BPA is known to have a variety of detrimental health effects, including cell damage, hormone disruption, and potential cancer risks.
The industry’s wholehearted embrace of cans comes with a lurking question: should we be worried about chemicals in the container’s epoxy lining? In light of the potential health risks associated with BPA, it’s definitely a valid concern. Fortunately, the amount of BPA found in canned beer is usually low and exposure is short-term – meaning it’s unlikely to do any serious damage to people who only drink canned beer occasionally. However, if you drink canned beer regularly and are concerned about your health, it is a good idea to look for alternatives.
There are several alternatives to canned beer that don’t come with the potential hazards of BPA. For example, you could switch to bottled beer, as there is no liner and thus no BPA exposure. Draft beer is another option, as it does not use cans at all. However, unlike bottled and canned beer, Draft beer generally has a shorter shelf life.
While BPA is the most common chemical found in beer can linings, there are other potentially dangerous substances as well. The most important of these is leaching, which is the process by which certain chemicals, such as phthalates, can seep into the contents of the can. Phthalates are known to be endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which can potentially lead to a range of health problems, including infertility, birth defects, and cancer.
In recent years, some breweries have removed BPA from their can linings and are using non-toxic alternatives. For example, some craft beer makers have begun using can liners made from a water-based acrylic coating that keeps beer isolated from metal while containing no BPA. Other breweries are experimenting with different materials, such as stainless steel, to make cans that are free of BPA.
If you are concerned about the potential health risks associated with BPA, here are a few steps you can take to reduce your exposure:
While it is unlikely that the amount of BPA found in canned beer poses a serious risk to health, it is still important to take steps to reduce your exposure if you are concerned. Looking for BPA-free cans and opting for bottled, draft,