Occurrence of bisphenol A in the milk chain: A monitoring model for risk assessment at a dairy company

propane, is an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) bearing 2 phenol functional groups widely used in the production of polycarbonate plastics (used in food contact materials), epoxy resins (as internal coating in canned food), and as an antioxidant in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) materials intended to come into contact with food (EFSA, 2015). Bisphenol A contamination of the human food chain may occur due to direct environmental pollution and bioaccumulation in food matrices or, also, leaching from packaging materials (Repossi et al., 2016; Russo et al., 2019). Inhalation and dermal contact are significant exposure routes for workers involved in the chemical manufacture, but diet is the most important source of exposure in all population groups (Careghini et al., 2015; EFSA, 2015). As a dangerous EDC with estrogenic activity, BPA alters Bisphenol A (BPA) as a chemical hazard may enter the milk chain during primary production at the farm and, successively, during milk processing at a dairy company. To identify the potential pathways that play a role in the occurrence of BPA, a monitoring model for risk assessment based on the identification of the haz-ards at each stage of milk processing was investigated. Milk samples were analyzed using liquid chromatog-raphy with fluorescence detection. Quantifiable levels were detected in samples obtained from the raw milk storage tank, pasteurized milk from the storage tank, and packaged milk. The highest BPA contamination levels were detected in raw milk from the storage tank (mean 0.265 ?g/L). Despite the fact that dietary expo -sure levels were below the temporary daily intake, BPA may have adverse effects, particularly for vulnerable population groups. New monitoring programs involv-ing each stage of milk processing should therefore be applied.

Automated summary

Propane, an endocrine-disrupting chemical, is widely used in the production of plastics, epoxy resins, and PVC materials. Bisphenol A contamination may occur due to environmental pollution, bioaccumulation in food matrices, and leaching from packaging materials. Diet is the main source of exposure for all population groups.