The industry which is using Bisphenol A (BPA) in a variety of food packaging affecting nearly all Americans apparently isn’t concerned about the safety of the controversial compound.  Instead, it is concerned about how to talk the public into permitting its continued use– as a liner for tin cans and an additive for clear water and soda bottles, for example.

The Washington Post published an article May 31 describing a strategy session involving bisphenol A (BPA) packaging manufacturers and large users, such as Coca Cola.  The Post obtained notes from the meeting and corroborated them with a second attendee.

Strategizers suggested a $500,000 public relations campaign, ideally captained by a pregnant young woman willing to speak around the country about the benefits of BPA.

Participants considered using “fear tactics” in the campaign, such as telling people they won’t have access to baby food any more. On a more rational note, they also suggested returning control to consumers–allowing them to choose BPA-free packaging at a higher price, according to the notes obtained by the Post.

A body of scientific evidence using laboratory animals has grown over the past 10 years linking BPA to breast and testicular cancer, obesity, diabetes, hyperactivity, miscarriage, low sperm count, and other reproductive problems. Human studies have linked BPA to diabetes and heart disease. It also has been found to affect chemotherapy for breast cancer.  BPA has also been found to leach from packaging into the food or beverage, making its way into the test subject’s urine.

The federal agency charged with protecting us, the FDA, is choosing to believe a few industry-funded studies claiming no harmful effects. But criticism is growing, even from within the FDA.  Last fall, the scientific advisory board for the FDA criticized the agency for relying on industry-funded studies on the controversial chemical.

And so other legislative bodies are getting into the act, including the city of Chicago, which has banned BPA in baby bottles and sippy cups. Six states have laws on the matter pending.  Meanwhile, Canada banned BPA in baby bottles in 2008.

The FDA is reviewing the controversy under a new commissioner.

I don’t know about you, but I think we all ought to find purer water somewhere besides in BPA-containing bottled water bottles.  A home water filter is a good place to start. Carry your water with you in a stainless steel bottle, and you’re all set!