WASHINGTON (AP) – An independent panel of science advisers is taking issue with the FDA’s assessment that a controversial chemical is safe.

In a report to the agency, the panel concluded: “The margins of safety identified by FDA as ‘adequate’ are, in fact, inadequate.”

The chemical, known as bisphenolA, is used to make plastic baby bottles and sealants for cans that contain food. Environmental groups are seeking to have it banned in products for young children.

The advisers found that the FDA had not considered all the scientific evidence available in concluding that BPA is safe.

AP-ES-10-28-08 1910EDT