BPA in your pet’s food: Why you should not overlook the compound

The Bisphenol-A (BPA) compound has been catching more bad press lately, especially after medical experts overruled the FDA’s decision to label the element as safe. But before we even get to look at BPA’s reputation, let understand what the aspect is all about and the concern surrounding it.

Understanding BPA

BPA or bisphenol A is a compound comprising of epoxy resins and plastics that are used to line the insides of metal storage containers such as pet food cans. In its scientific description, BPA acts as an estrogen equivalent- it can easily be a swap for the natural body compound. The science with using this chemical compound for canning is that it prevents the food from reacting with the metal while inside the can, and helps keep bacteria away with a tight seal.

The adverse effects

Research confirms that BPA and other xeno-estrogens are responsible for interfering in the testosterone levels in both humans and animals, including our dogs. BPA contamination can lead to a change in function of the testosterone glands and even have adverse effects on fertility and sexual behavior. In dogs, BPA laboratory studies indicate the compound as a likely cause of the increasing cases of dog leukemia and testicular cancer.

Dogs indicating higher levels of BPA in their blood were also on record as experiencing dog gut bacteria and metabolism challenges. The increase in BPA was shown to reduce critical bacterium responsible for metabolizing BPA and other related environmental compounds within the body.

What to do

Already government regulations are fighting and limiting the use of BPA compound across different sectors. Unfortunately, the lack of proper regulatory bodies is a significant letdown since companies continue to manufacture with the toxic substance.

Despite the disappointing facts, the following practical measures can help reduce the BPA levels in your dog.

• Use stainless steel containers for the pet’s water and food instead of plastic bottles
• Avoid canned food especially dog food cans since they do contain the resins with BPA
• Gift the dog toys made from natural materials such as wool instead of plastics
• Consider undertaking a liver cleanse to eliminate the BPA
• Check the dog’s food packaging to ensure its BPA-free

While these actions can help reduce the BPA levels, it remains impossible to know whether avoiding the BPA sources will have a positive effect on the pet’s health. Still, it is better to be safe than sorry.

SOURCE:Medscape, NIH, Science Direct, Researchgate