DECATUR, ILL. — Archer Daniels Midland Co. has begun to offer isosorbide, an industrial ingredient made from corn that is a potential alternative to the petroleum-based chemical Bisphenol A in plastics and other applications.

The Food and Drug Administration, which is taking steps to reduce human exposure to Bisphenol A in the food supply, in January said, “Studies employing standardized toxicity tests have thus far supported the safety of current low levels of human exposure to B.P.A. However, on the basis of results from recent studies using novel approaches to test for subtle effects, both the National Toxicology Program at the National Institutes of Health and F.D.A. have some concern about the potential effects of BPA on the brain, behavior and prostate glands in fetuses, infants and young children.”

ADM offers isosorbide under its line of Evolution Chemicals in a technical grade (97% pure) and a polymer grade (99% pure). Isosorbide may be used in such applications as polyesters for inks, toners, powder coatings, packaging and durable goods; polyurethanes for foams and coatings; polycarbonates for durable goods and optical media; epoxy resins for paints; and detergents, surfactants and additives for personal and consumer products.

“Today more than ever, people are seeking both consumer and industrial products that are safe and renewable,” said Robert Broomham, business director for ADM Industrial Chemicals. “Isosorbide offers manufacturers a renewable alternative to the traditional chemicals found in many products.”