Alyssa Broussard | Jun 25, 2024

What Does BPA-Free Mean?

Have you ever seen the phrase “BPA-free” on a water bottle or plastic container? This seemingly mundane phrase carries a lot of weight in manufacturing and advertising.

But what does BPA-free really mean?

In this guide, we’ll explore BPA and the concerns surrounding it. We’ll discover what BPA-free is, the benefits of BPA-free, a popular alternative, and actionable steps you can take with BrüMate at your side.

What is BPA?

BPA stands for Bisphenol A. It is a chemical compound that has been used in plastic and resin production since the 1960s. BPA is popular in many plastic items including plastic bottles, food storage, and even in the lining of cans.

In the early 2000s, studies began to show that BPA could leach from plastic containers into food and beverages. These studies ignited a slew of concerns surrounding the health and environmental ramifications of BPA products.

Health Concerns Surrounding BPA

The main concerns surrounding the impact of BPA focus on human hormones and development, specifically in babies and young children. There is also a possible connection between BPA and adult health issues.

These include:

  • Developmental issues in children

  • Type 2 diabetes

  • Cardiovascular issues

  • Increased blood pressure in adults

In 2012, the FDA banned the usage of BPA in bottles and sippy cups. The use of BPA in other products continues to be allowed but restricted as it has been since its first use.

Environmental Concerns Surrounding BPA

Did you know BPA can spread through the air, water, and soil? Like most chemicals, BPA does not go away after the first time it is used. Chemicals that can leach into water are easily absorbed by the creatures who live in it. Scientists have even found that BPA can disrupt the endocrine system of fish, leading to detrimental reproductive issues.

What Does BPA-Free Mean?

We’ve talked about BPA. Now, let’s talk about BPA-free. As you may have guessed, BPA-free means that the item does not contain BPA. Which is great – except – there is still the issue of other plastic chemicals and toxins. These plastics still expose people to microplastics, toxic chemicals, and additives that can build up negative health effects over time.

What You Can Do

You don’t have to ditch every plastic item you own or go completely zero-waste (love that for you if you do). But hear us out. A few simple switches can make all the difference:

  • Kick single-use plastic water bottles and opt for a stainless steel tumbler

  • Switch out your trusty plastic lunch box for a glass one

When you don’t have a plastic alternative, there are still steps you can take.

  • Wash plastic containers regularly and throw them away at the first sign of wear

  • Avoid reheating food in plastic - transfer to a dish

  • Keep plastic items in cool temperatures, and don’t let them heat up! Chemicals leach more in the heat

Are Stainless Steel Water Bottles Better Than BPA-Free?

As we mentioned earlier, BPA-free does not mean plastic free. Between a BPA-free plastic tumbler and a stainless steel tumbler, stainless steel takes the win. If you’re wondering “is  stainless steel safe?”, the short answer is yes.

Stainless steel offers:

  • Better insulation

  • Durability

  • Sustainability

  • No metallic taste

The downside? They tend to cost more. But they last longer. If you ask us, it balances out.

Why Choose BrüMate

BrüMate is dedicated to creating products that are undeniably different. From quality, to prints, to sustainability - we create everything with a positive impact in mind.

All of our products are BPA, BPS, BPF, and latex-free (we'll get into these another day). Simply sip more + do more of you, and worry less with this in mind.

One final benefit? You don’t have to worry about leaving a plastic-leaching straw in your favorite drinks. Our stainless steel straws have your back!

Sip Sustainably with BrüMate

By choosing BPA-free products, you not only cut down your exposure to harmful chemicals, but decrease the amount being put back into the world. BPA-free products are commonly more environmentally friendly and easier to recycle, but that doesn’t mean it can’t go a step further.

Whether you’re pouring your coffee for the morning commute or enjoying ice cold sips on a walk, you can sip confidently knowing your stainless steel Brü is BPA-free. What are you waiting for? Check out our best sellers now!