Can BPA from packaged milk and baby bottles pose a health risk to infants?

What's actually in it

Bisphenol A (BPA) is used in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy linings found in some baby bottles and milk packaging. When warm milk sits in these containers, BPA leaches into the liquid. Babies drinking formula or breast milk from these containers ingest small doses of BPA with every feeding.

What the research says

A 2025 study in Food Chem X tested BPA levels in packaged milk and baby bottles. The researchers found measurable BPA in multiple products, with levels varying by packaging type and temperature. Heated milk in plastic containers had the highest BPA levels.

BPA is an endocrine disruptor that mimics estrogen. In infants, even tiny doses can affect brain development, immune function, and reproductive organ growth. Babies process BPA much more slowly than adults.

Use glass baby bottles for all feedings. If you use plastic bottles, make sure they're labeled BPA-free and never heat milk in them. Buy milk in glass or carton packaging instead of plastic jugs.