The chemical is used most commonly used in plastics like baby bottles and water bottles, as well as food and beverage can lining and dental sealants. The chemical reportedly leaks into the food and liquids held in the containers, and gets into consumers' blood streams.
A 2004 study by the CDC showed 95 percent of Americans were found to have BPA in their urine.
In the body, the chemical acts like the hormone estrogen, and a report in The Green Guide said studies in animals have shown that "exposure to BPA in the womb raises the risk of certain cancers, hampers fertility, and could contribute to childhood behavioral problems such as hyperactivity."
USA Today reported that the National Toxicology Program found that even low levels of BPA "cause changes in behavior and the brain, prostate gland, mammary gland and the age at which girls enter puberty."
BPA is used in plastics to make the material flexible and shatter-resistant.
While it's accepted that BPA is found in the majority of Americans, there is controversy over how much, if any damage it has.
USA Today wrote that Rick Locker, an attorney for the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, said the Food and Drug Administration has not found a risk to children from BPA consumption.
Critics say that the chemical is most harmful to fetus's and newborns, causing damage that can last a lifetime.
To be safe, Toys 'R' Us and Wal-Mart have announced that they will stop selling baby feeding devices made with BPA.
