It was originally introduced as a safe alternative to controversial bisphenol-A (BPA) plastics, but now experts believe bisphenol S (BPS), could in fact be just as dangerous, particularly to pregnant women.
Canadian researchers studied the effect of both BPA and BPS (often labelled BPA-free) on zebrafish, which have a similar gene function to humans, and found that even low doses caused changes in brain development that led to hyperactivity.
“You have a bunch of cells in your brain and at some point they become neurons and they have to move to the right place to form the right circuitry.” explained Deborah Kurrasch, author of the study and researcher at the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine.
“If neurons are born too soon, they can move to the wrong place and can form the wrong circuits.” she added.
The research revealed that the presence of BPS increased the number of neurons generated in the brain of a zebrafish by 240%.
Because BPA is not filtered out by wastewater treatment plants, the dose of BPS tested was similar to the amount present in natural water sources.
The next phase of the research will involve testing BPA and BPS on mice but Kurrasch believes the latest findings support earlier research that suggested pregnant women should be cautious around bisphenols and avoid them where possible.
The takeaway? Just because a product is labelled ‘BPA-free’ does not guarantee its safety. Here are four ways to limit your exposure to plastic
1 Invest in reusable sandwich bags like these
2 Use reusable grocery bags in natural fibres instead of plastic ‘bags for life’
3 Choose eggs in cardboard boxes rather than plastic
4 Freeze and store your leftovers in glass bowls and containers like these
