Does Coca‑Cola packaging contain Bisphenol A, which has been said to have health risks?

Currently, the only commercially viable lining systems for the mass production of aluminium drink cans contain BPA. This is the industry standard, and reliable scientific evidence indicates that the levels of BPA associated with can linings are safe.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used worldwide in making the packages of thousands of products, including the coating inside virtually all metal food and drink cans. This coating guards against contamination and extends the shelf life of foods and drinks. It also is used to manufacture shatter-resistant bottles, medical devices, sports safety equipment and compact disc covers. It has been used for more than 50 years.

The drinks packaging for Coca‑Cola products does not pose a public health risk - including any alleged risks associated with BPA in can linings.

While we are very aware of the highly publicised concerns and viewpoints that have been expressed about BPA, our point of view is that the scientific consensus on this issue is most accurately reflected in the opinions expressed by those regulatory agencies whose missions and responsibilities are to protect the public's health.

The consensus repeatedly stated among regulatory agencies in Australia, Canada, Europe, Germany, Japan, New Zealand and the United States is that current levels of exposure to BPA through drinks packaging do not pose a health risk to the general population, including children.

We believe any regulation should be based on sound scientific evidence, and we will abide by whatever regulations the proper authorities deem to be appropriate.

In the past couple of years, BPA has become controversial, even though reliable scientific evidence repeatedly reviewed by regulatory authorities indicates that the levels of BPA associated with can linings are safe. As a precaution, Health Canada restricted the use of BPA in baby bottles, but later confirmed its position that exposure to BPA from canned food products is very low and poses no health or safety concerns to the general population.

It is worth noting that BPA is not found in PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic.