BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical compound primarily used to make plastics and has been in commerce for more than 50 years, but under suspicion for safety hazards since the 1930s. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 1500 people that tested positive for BPA, were also associated with heart disease, diabetes, and abnormally high levels of certain liver enzymes.

BPA has been known to leach from the plastic lining of canned foods, and polycarbonate plastics that are cleaned with harsh detergents or used to contain acidic or high-temperature liquids. Exposure can also occur through diet, air, and skin absorption.

Consumer groups recommend that people wishing to lower their exposure to BPA avoid canned food and polycarbonate plastic containers unless the packaging indicates the plastic is BPA-free. The National Toxicology Panel recommends avoiding microwaving food in plastic containers, putting plastics in the dishwasher or using harsh detergents, to avoid leaching.

To read the full article on BPA,  visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/bisphenol_A