ECHA Risk Committee Approves BPA Reclassification

The Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has voted unanimously in favour of a French proposal to upgrade the classification of bisphenol A (BPA) as a presumed human reproductive toxicant to 1B.

BPA, the chemical used in production of the engineering plastic polycarbonate and in epoxy resins for can linings, was previously classified as a category 2 reproductive toxicant.

RAC stressed that the change pertains solely to the adverse effects on sexual function and fertility as proposed by France and has no broader scope. The Committee said had reached a consensus after comparing the EU's Classification, Labelling and Packaging CLP criteria.

The agency that administers REACH said its review of currently available research showed that there were adverse effects on functional fertility following oral exposure to BPA in a multi-generation guideline study in mice and rats. It noted, however, that classification is focused on the substance's intrinsic properties and not human exposure levels.

ECHA said it had also received a proposal to restrict the use of BPA in thermal paper such as that used in cash register receipts.

Interview

Fostering Innovation and Collaboration
Specialty Chemicals Distributor IMCD’s Strategy

Fostering Innovation and Collaboration

Valerie Diele-Braun, CEO of IMCD, shares her vision for sustainability, global expansions, and strategic direction in an exclusive CHEManager International interview.

Whitepaper

Excellence in Pharmaceutical Distribution and The Critical Role of Good Distribution Practice (GDP)
Setting the Standard

Excellence in Pharmaceutical Distribution and The Critical Role of Good Distribution Practice (GDP)

Are you ready to elevate your pharmaceutical operations? Download our exclusive whitepaper and discover how compliance with Good Distribution Practice (GDP) is essential for the safety and integrity of pharmaceuticals.

most read

Photo
08.11.2024 • News

Future Prospects in Green Chemistry

The Discourse on Green Chemistry Interactive Pitch Competition, held on November 5, 2024, at Wiley's Berlin office as part of Berlin Science Week, showcased a range of innovative projects aimed at addressing critical environmental challenges.

Photo
27.03.2025 • News

J&J to Invest $55 Billion in US Operations

US healthcare giant Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has unveiled plans to invest over $55 billion in the US over the next four years. This significant investment marks a 25% increase compared to the previous four years, the company said.

Photo
24.01.2025 • News

And the Winners are: Cynio, EnaDyne and Green Li-ion

The CHEManager Innovation Pitch, the start-up promotion initiative of CHEManager and CHEManager International, has given more than 100 start-ups from over 15 countries the opportunity to present their innovative ideas, products and technologies to a broad target group since its launch in 2019.