BPA-Free Doesn’t Mean Chemical-Free: What Parents Need to Know

Why BPA Was Removed from Baby Bottles in the First Place

When BPA (bisphenol A) hit the headlines, it was for good reason. This industrial chemical was commonly used in plastics, including baby bottles, until studies linked it to hormone disruption, developmental issues, and other health concerns. Understandably, parents were alarmed, and manufacturers responded by offering “BPA-free” products to restore trust.

In the UK and EU, BPA has since been banned in baby bottles. But what exactly replaced it?

What Does “BPA-Free” Actually Mean?

“BPA-free” simply means that the specific chemical bisphenol A is not present in the plastic. But that doesn’t mean the product is completely free from other similar compounds.
Many brands swapped BPA for close relatives like BPS (bisphenol S) or BPF (bisphenol F), which have slightly different chemical structures but can behave in similar ways inside the body.

So while BPA-free labels may feel reassuring, they don’t guarantee your bottle is chemical-free, just BPA-free.

The Hidden Chemicals Still Found in Baby Bottles

Recent research has raised eyebrows over the potential risks of some BPA alternatives. BPS and BPF, for example, have also been shown to interact with hormones and may not be as ‘safe’ as once hoped.

On top of that, plastic bottles can release microplastics and other leachable compounds, especially when repeatedly heated, sterilised, or scratched over time. Even bottles made from polypropylene (often touted as a safer choice) have been found to release microplastic particles into formula when exposed to high temperatures.

Are BPA-Free Baby Bottles Still Safe?

The reality is: most BPA-free bottles on the market are considered low-risk and are approved for use in baby products. But ‘safe’ doesn’t mean entirely without concern.

The safety of plastic bottles often comes down to how they’re used. Repeated heating, microwave use, and scratches can increase chemical migration from the plastic to the liquid inside, especially when feeding warm milk or formula.

Safer Alternatives for Peace of Mind

If you’d rather err on the side of caution, there are alternative materials that don’t rely on plastics at all:

• Glass bottles – durable, naturally chemical-free, and easy to sterilise
• Silicone bottles – soft, flexible, and made from food-grade materials
• Stainless steel – lightweight and tough, though less common in baby bottles

These options may be a little pricier, but many parents feel it’s worth the investment for peace of mind.

What to Look for When Shopping

Not all BPA-free bottles are equal. When shopping, keep an eye out for:

• Materials listed clearly on the packaging
• Free-from claims (like “BPA & BPS-free”)
• EU safety standards or certifications
• Brands that are transparent about their materials and testing

If a bottle doesn’t clearly state what it’s made from, it’s worth asking — or skipping.

Conclusion
Just because a baby bottle says “BPA-free” doesn’t automatically mean it’s free from all questionable chemicals. It’s a step in the right direction, but it’s not the full story. For parents who want to minimise exposure, consider looking into non-plastic options and avoid heating milk or formula directly in plastic bottles.

Still deciding which bottle material is right for your family? Read our guide comparing glass vs plastic baby bottles.

Sources:

Rochester JR, Bolden AL. (2015). Bisphenol S and F: A Systematic Review and Comparison of the Hormonal Activity of Bisphenol A Substitutes. Environmental Health Perspectives, 123(7), 643–650. https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/full/10.1289/ehp.1408989

Time Magazine: Why ‘BPA-Free’ May Be Meaningless.