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Despite concerns voiced by parents, lawmakers, consumer groups and plaintiffs in a number of lawsuits, regulators at the Food and Drug Administration have determined that a chemical commonly found in baby bottles, sippy cups and other children's products is safe.

The chemical, bisphenol-A or BPA, is a strengthening agent that allows plastic to keep its clarity.

Critics say it poses a poses a risk of cancer, deformities and other hazards to children. It has been the subject of congressional hearings, and a bill has been introduced to ban its use. BPA is already banned in Japan and Canada.

Scientists at the FDA say that the trace amounts of BPA found in products do not post a health risk to children or adults.

The agency had previously said that there was no indication that the chemical was dangerous, but agreed to revisit the issue after a report by the federal National Toxicology Program cited some concern about its risks to children.

"FDA has concluded that an adequate margin of safety exists for BPA at current levels of exposure from food contact uses," said an FDA draft assessment released Aug. 22. "At a later date, FDA will publish a separate document that provides a safety assessment of BPA exposure from other FDA-regulated products."

The draft was issued in advance of a September meeting where FDA officials will discuss the results with a panel of experts.

Commissioner Andrew von Eschenbach said in a statement that the agency relies on the assessments of scientists.

"With regard to BPA thus far, the science FDA has reviewed does not justify recommending that anyone discontinue using these products," von Eschenbach said.

You can read the assessment here.