Bisphenol-A is a ubiquitous chemical that is used in many consumer products. This post concerns its use in canned food for cats.
Cans containing food (for pets and people) also contain, as I understand it, a resin coating on the inside wall of the can. This resin coating contains the chemical Bisphenol-A. The coating allows the can of food to be heated to kill bacteria without allowing the metal of the can to contaminate the food.
It would seem though that the protective coating is contaminating the food instead. Firstly, I find it interesting that the canned food is heated to what must be a high temperature with the food in it. Bacteria is killed at about 75C. Doesn't this cook the food? Maybe this is how prepared food in cans is cooked?
Maybe this is why cat food contains "ash" (see cat food ash). Bisphenol-A is one of a large number of substances that can interact with our hormone systems. In a recent press release it was reported that research carried out by the Peninsula Medical School, Exeter, USA, found a possible link between this chemical and a heightened risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes in humans. The research looked at the levels of BPA in the urine of 1455 Americans. The researchers say that they can't be sure that BPA is the direct cause of increased cases of heart disease and diabetes. The research is counter to previous research.
I also have a concern over the effect this chemical might have on animals and particularly cats. A lot of cat food is sold in cans and some cats probably eat canned cat food to the exclusion of all other food increasing exposure to this chemical. There would also seem to be increased incidences of diabetes in cats (see feline diabetes). I just wonder if there is a connection - does anyone know?
Cat food and Bisphenol-A (BPA) to home page
Cat food and Bisphenol-A (BPA) - Source:
- Times Newspaper
- www.food.gov.uk
No comments:
Post a Comment
Your comments are always welcome.