Optimized Method for Quantifying Bisphenols in Bottled Water and PET/rPET Matrices

The growing use of plastics in food packaging has raised concerns about chemical migration into consumables, posing potential health risks. Ensuring the safety of packaging materials is a critical public health priority. This study aimed to validate an analytical method for qualitative and quantitative determination of BPs in bottled water and evaluate their presence in PET and rPET matrices. The method was validated through recovery tests for eight BPs (Bisphenol A, Bisphenol S, Bisphenol F, Bisphenol AF, Bisphenol AP, Bisphenol B, Bisphenol Z, and Bisphenol P). Linearity (R² ≥ 0.990) and high recovery rates proved the method's stability, reliability, and accuracy. For bottled water, LODs ranged 0.030-0.075 µg/L and LOQs 0.10-0.25 µg/L; for PET/rPET, LODs were 0.00030-0.00075 mg/kg and LOQs 0.0010-0.0025 mg/kg. Mean recoveries in bottled water were in the range 89-109%, in PET from 94% to 117%, and in rPET from 106% to 118%. The results showed that BPA was quantifiable in all matrices, while other BPs remained below the limit of quantification. The validated method provides a robust tool for assessing bisphenol contamination and supports ongoing efforts to enhance food safety and inform regulatory frameworks for sustainable PET recycling.