The BPA issue in the food industry: a turning point for manufacturers and consumers
BPA is a chemical compound that has been used for decades in the manufacture of plastics and epoxy resins. In particular, BPA is widely used in food packaging, cans and plastic containers. The problem lies in the potential release of BPA from these materials into food and beverages, which can lead to human exposure.
Health concerns and scientific findings:
- BPA is considered an endocrine disruptor, which means it can affect the human endocrine system.
- Studies have shown possible links between BPA exposure and various health problems, including:
– Reproductive disorders
– Developmental disorders in children
– Increased risk of certain cancers
– Impairment of the immune system - The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) updated its risk assessment of BPA in 2023, reassessing the health risks.
Regulatory actions and upcoming legislative changes:
- In light of the growing scientific evidence and increasing consumer concern, regulators around the world have taken action to restrict the use of BPA.
- Significant legislative changes are pending in the European Union that will comprehensively ban BPA in food contact materials.
- Since January 20, 2025, the EU regulation banning bisphenol A (BPA) and other bisphenols in food contact materials has been in force.
- Similar regulations are also being discussed and implemented in other countries and regions.
- These legislative changes present the food industry with major challenges and require innovative solutions for BPA-free alternatives.
agathon: Pioneer in BPA-free material alternatives:
- agathon has recognized the urgency of the BPA issue at an early stage.
- The company is working intensively on the development and testing of BPA-free material alternatives that meet the high standards of the food industry.
- agathon invests in research and development to identify innovative materials that are both safe and functional. An internal team, consisting of scientists with a doctorate in food technology, chemical degradation and polymers, supports this.
- The efforts of agathon are aimed at offering sustainable and future-proof solutions to the food industry. To this end, agathon is in very close contact with various raw material manufacturers and together with the customers, tests samples in house.
- agathon sees the marketability of BPA-free material alternatives as an opportunity.
The future of food moulds:
- The upcoming BPA ban marks a turning point for the food industry and consumer protection.
- The development and use of BPA-free material alternatives are crucial to ensure the safety and quality of food.
- agathon is making an important contribution to this development and is positioning itself as a pioneer in sustainable mold solutions for the food industry.
The company agathon takes its responsibility seriously and leads by example.
11 materials have been intensively tested for their suitability, 4 of which must now perform in the process.
In general, we are convinced that different materials will be used depending on the plant performance and size.
To avoid unnecessary tooling investments for our customers, we offer the option of using the latest software to dynamically simulate the use of our moulds in advance based on our customers’ process data, and to incorporate these findings into the new developments.
Our team of experts is available to support our customers in the generation of process data, for example with intelligent, wifi-connected moulds and personal expertise.
Please feel free to send your request by email to agathon@agathon-moulds.com
(Redefining Digital Creativity)
Moulds
Tradition & innovation since 1949
More than 160 employees produce moulds in different sizes and weights for the entire food market with a focus on the chocolate industry.
Process
Precision & the latest technologies
Moulds from agathon are characterized by the highest quality and contribute significantly to increased efficiency in production - we design moulds for highly complex items and keep the production processes of our customers in focus.
Quality
Mould development at the highest level
Of course, we take each of your inquiries seriously and look for individual solutions in the Food Design Center as well as in the development and production. We have been working with this motto for more than 75 years – an important part of our success.
BPA
agathon sets a good example
BPA is a chemical compound that has been used for decades in the manufacture of plastics and epoxy resins. In particular, BPA is widely used in food packaging, cans and plastic containers. The problem lies in the potential release of BPA from these materials into food and beverages, which can lead to human exposure.
Recycling
Sustainability through plastic recycling in production
We are aware of our responsibility towards the environment and therefore rely on sustainable production processes. An important part of these efforts is plastic recycling.
