In the past the Berkey Light® systems were made of food grade polycarbonate that was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. Some research suggests that polycarbonates have been known to leach BPA (Bisphenol-A) when either exposed to High Strength Industrial Grade Alkaline Detergents or when they are repeatedly exposed to temperatures in excess of 192 degrees Fahrenheit (over 88 degrees Celsius); neither of which occurs when utilizing the Berkey Light® system.
New studies concerning the possible leaching of BPA are ongoing. There has also been a wealth of mis-information circulated over the airwaves and the Internet. The FDA stated in April 2008 that it was not recommending anyone discontinue using products that contain BPA while they continue their risk assessment process.
Even with such statements from the FDA, New Millennium Concepts determined that it was in the best interest of our customers to utilize an alternative to the polycarbonate previously used to produce the Berkey Light® system. Fortunately, in 2008, a new product was developed that is BPA FREE. New Millennium Concepts, Ltd. replaced the polycarbonate material with this new material to alleviate any concerns that our customers might potentially have. Not only is this copolyester highly durable, it is also scratch, stain, shatter and odor-resistant.
PLEASE NOTE: Over the past year there has been an increasing concern over containers that contain the recycle code #7. The recycle code found on the bottom of plastic containers is called Resin Identification Codes. Polycarbonate is simply one type of plastic that falls under the code #7. Code #7 is a catchall code that basically means “Other” and most products that do not fit into categories #1 through #6 are placed into category #7. It is also for products that are made from more than one type of plastic in category #1 through #6. The new copolyester that the Berkey Light® system utilizes is also categorized into #7 although it is not a polycarbonate and does not contain any BPA.