Concerns mount as health experts warn of the potential dangers of handling paper receipts containing Bisphenol S (BPS), an endocrine disruptor similar to BPA, urging both businesses and consumers to reconsider their interaction with these everyday items.
Key Insights
- BPS is an endocrine disruptor found in paper receipts, posing health risks.
- The Center for Environmental Health has issued warnings to retailers about BPS.
- Even brief contact with BPS receipts can exceed safe exposure levels.
- Precautionary measures include using digital receipts and avoiding hand sanitizers.
Rising Concerns Over BPS Exposure
Recent findings have drawn attention to the health risks associated with Bisphenol S (BPS), a chemical found in paper receipts. BPS, identified as an endocrine disruptor, mimics estrogen and may disrupt key body functions, including metabolism and reproduction. The Center for Environmental Health (CEH) highlights studies showing that simply holding a BPS-laced receipt for a mere 10 seconds can expose individuals to unsafe levels of this chemical. Concerns are particularly pressing for individuals like cashiers, who frequently handle such receipts.
“BPS, like [Bisphenol A] … mimics estrogen and can disrupt the normal functioning of the body, including metabolism, growth and development, and reproduction.” – CEH statement
The CEH has issued a notice of violation to 32 retailers, demanding reforms or warnings concerning their receipt products. The agency is prepared to take legal action if necessary, emphasizing the urgent need for companies to either eliminate BPS from their receipt stock or provide clear warnings to consumers. The growing trend of digital receipts could lead the way in reducing paper receipt usage, thereby minimizing exposure risks.
Protective Measures and Public Health
Health experts recommend precautionary measures such as using digital receipts or preemptively declining a paper copy. Those who must handle receipts frequently, like store workers, are advised to wear protective gloves, especially when using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, which enhance dermal absorption of BPS. Using and promoting digital receipt systems can further safeguard against these hazards.
“Store workers who must handle receipts should wear gloves if possible or avoid using alcohol-based hand cleaners before handling a receipt because it can significantly increase the absorption of BPS.” – CEH Senior Director Shakoora Azimi-Gaylon
Another essential step is educating the public on the broader risks associated with thermal paper, which commonly contains either Bisphenol A (BPA) or BPS. The industry has noted public health benefits from adopting phenol-free alternatives and technologies that avoid these disruptive chemicals.
The Bigger Picture: Beyond Receipts
Broader implications of these findings prompt comparisons to other everyday items containing similar chemicals, such as Bisphenol A found in various consumer products. There remains a strong call for more research into the effects of such “forever chemicals” on human health. Legislative pressure and environmental advocacy continue to push for safer alternatives and widespread adoption of lower-risk materials across industries.
“They really speak to just how high the concentrations of BPS are in these receipts.” – said CEH Science Lead Mihir Vohra.
Businesses, government agencies, and consumers alike are urged to act to protect vulnerable populations, such as children and pregnant women, from undue exposure to these hazardous substances. By advocating for digital solutions and phenol-free papers, America can take a significant step toward ensuring a safer environment.
