"As scientists actively engaged in researching the health effects of chemical exposures, we are writing to express our concerns about the recent handling of bisphenol A and other bisphenols by German regulatory authorities," we read in an open letter signed by 56 experts on health effects of chemical exposures. The document addressed to German authorities was published On 27 November 2023 by Professor Andreas Kortenkamp, an expert in Human Molecular Toxicology at Brunel University London.
"Bisphenol A is one of the most extensively studied chemicals and its toxicity is well described," experts warn. They emphasise that all the necessary evidence to limit the usage of these chemicals under the European chemical regulation REACH is accessible, yet, "the German authorities have recently withdrawn their REACH restriction proposal."
The experts suggest the German govermnent to:
- Direct the German authorities to re-submit the REACH restriction proposal for bisphenols as a matter of urgency.
- Strengthen the resubmission by also considering harm to human health.
- Set the over-arching aim to minimize bisphenol exposure to humans and the environment.
The signatories of the letter also point out, that they regard the recent publication of the German Government’s Five-Point-Plan for the protection against endocrine disruptors "as a step in the right direction."