Extraction, quantification and health risk assessment of bisphenol A from various kinds of packaged milk and baby bottles

Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor, is widely used in plastic containers for food packaging. BPA can migrate into food, particularly from polycarbonate (PC) containers, posing health risks by mimicking estrogen. This study investigated BPA concentrations in 23 milk samples from national and local brands in Pakistan, stored in various packaging types: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene (PE), Tetra Pak, and Tetra Brick. BPA extraction was performed using liquid-liquid (LLE) and solid-phase methods, with quantification by HPLC. Raw milk in PC containers showed the highest BPA levels (0.042-0.056 μg/ml at elevated temperatures). BPA was detected in 12 samples, with mean concentrations of 0.019 μg/ml (pasteurized), 0.032 μg/ml (UHT), and 0.049 μg/ml (raw milk). Six baby bottle brands were analyzed, with four showing BPA leaching, and Brand No. 2 exhibiting the highest levels and hazard index. The study emphasizes the need for safer packaging to protect infants from BPA exposure.