Bisphenol A, the chemical found in polycarbonate plastic, including baby bottles, is safe at current exposure levels, federal regulators said.

Scientists at the Food and Drug Administration said the levels of bisphenol A (BPA) in baby bottles and other household products are safe despite serious evidence that the chemical might cause cancer or lead to early or delayed puberty.

But the agency agreed to continue the research with more detailed testing after a report by the federal National Toxicology Program said that there was “some concern” about its risks in infants. Based on tests on animals the government working group said bisphenol could cause changes in behavior and the brain, and that it might reduce survival and birth weight in fetuses.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention around 93percent of Americans have traces of bisphenol in their urine, but this percentage is not harmful.

There are many environmental groups that say the chemical can hurt children and animals. Consumer safety groups say the BPA, which is a synthetic hormone similar to estrogen, can interfere with how the body absorbs the natural hormone estrogen, which is needed in the development of young bodies.

But the Food and Drug Administration’s analysis confirms that food contact products made from polycarbonate plastic including products for infants and children, can continue to be used safely. The opinion is shared by the American Chemistry Council, which represents the chemical industry.