BPA Migration From Galon To Drinking Water, Expert From IPB Reveals Its Findings

Illustration of gallon water. (Freepic)

JAKARTA - Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical compound widely used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resin. In food packaging products, including gallons to repeat, BPA functions to provide material strength and clarity.

However, public attention arises because this compound has the potential to migrate into food or drinks if exposed to certain conditions, such as high temperatures or certain acidity levels.

A number of studies say that exposure to large amounts of BPA can have an impact on health, although at very low levels it is generally still considered safe by various international regulatory agencies.

Environmental Expert from the Bogor Agricultural Institute (IPB), Prof. Suprihatin, emphasized that the length of life for gallons does not affect the potential for BPA migration from gallons of polycarbonates (PC) to bottled drinking water (AMDK).

BPA migration is only possible in extreme situations. In theory, the frequency of using gallons does not affect the rate of displacement of BPA to water," he explained as quoted by ANTARA.

The lecturer at the Department of Agricultural Industry Technology (TIN) IPB explained that the main factors that trigger BPA displacement are chemical conditions such as pH, physical factors such as high temperatures, and mechanical factors.

He added that the duration of contact between water and packaging also plays a role, but under normal conditions, the BPA levels that move from gallon to drinking water are very low and far below the threshold that endangers health.

Therefore, the use of gallons for PC re-use is considered safe as long as it is used in the right and clean ways. Prof. Suprihatin also emphasized the importance of the role of institutions such as BPOM to monitor and educate producers and consumers.

Meanwhile, the Young Expert Policy Analyst at the Directorate of the Beverage Industry, Tobacco Products, and Budgeting Materials of the Ministry of Industry, Okky Krisna Rachman, said that the AMDK industry must comply with the SNI standard for the gallon to be repeated.

The Galon must go through a series of tests and regulations, including provisions in the BPOM Regulation Number 20 of 2019 to ensure safety and quality. All drinking water packaging in Indonesia is also subject to Regulation Number 86 of 2019 which regulates food safety, ranging from sanitation, quality, to halal guarantees.

Each AMDK forum is required to have a SNI label according to the provisions in the Minister of Industry Regulation Number 26 of 2019 which revises Permenperin Number 78 of 2016 concerning the mandatory application of SNI for various types of bottled drinking water.

Every aspect is regulated through regulations to ensure the health and quality of products. All AMDK producers are required to conduct testing at the Product Certification Institute (LSPro) which has accredited laboratories," said Okky.