Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Health experts are raising concerns about a chemical commonly found on paper receipts, advising that even brief contact can result in absorption through the skin. Recent findings suggest that holding such receipts for just ten seconds may pose serious health risks.
On April 14, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) announced violations against 32 retailers for allegedly having high levels of Bisphenol S (BPS) in their receipts. This announcement follows an official notice released on April 11, implicating numerous well-known national corporations.
Describing BPS as a lesser-known but harmful counterpart to Bisphenol A (BPA), CEH characterized this organic compound as a hormone disruptor. It mimics estrogen, potentially influencing key bodily functions such as metabolism, growth, and reproduction.
The CEH’s statement highlighted that even minimal interaction with paper receipts containing BPS could lead to significant health concerns. According to their research, the chemical can be absorbed through the skin during very brief interactions with receipt paper.
Experts warn that exposure to BPS can exceed safe limits if a receipt is held for only ten seconds. CEH Science Lead Mihir Vohra stated that their studies indicated high concentrations of BPS, which require clear warnings for consumers due to health implications.
CEH intends to file a lawsuit against the implicated retailers if they do not comply with demands to provide transparent warnings or reformulate their products to eliminate BPS. The retailers may also face civil penalties as part of this enforcement action.
In light of these findings, health organizations are recommending that consumers should opt for digital receipts whenever feasible. This practice can minimize contact with potentially hazardous chemicals found in thermal paper.
Store employees handling receipts are advised to wear gloves or avoid using alcohol-based hand cleaners prior to handling receipts, as these can inadvertently increase BPS absorption. CEH Senior Director Shakoora Azimi-Gaylon emphasized the importance of these precautions in safeguarding health.
Additionally, thermal paper should not be recycled. The presence of bisphenols, such as BPA and BPS, can jeopardize the recycling process and lead to broader environmental and health issues.
Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst, has noticed a growing trend toward digital receipts in various sectors. He remarked on the transition toward a more digital approach to receipts as beneficial for public health.
Siegel further pointed out that many Americans unknowingly encounter BPA, which is prevalent in numerous products, including some smartphone cases. This exposure emphasizes the need for greater awareness about potential risks associated with everyday items.
There remains a pressing need for ongoing research into the implications of so-called ‘forever chemicals’ like BPS. Siegel expressed concern about their prevalence and the potential impact on fertility and overall health.
This focus on chemical exposure underscores the necessity for society to better document and manage encounters with these substances. BPS has increasingly come under scrutiny due to its suspected harmful effects on human health.
In a related study conducted in 2021 by German researchers, evidence surfaced indicating that BPS could severely damage human brain cells, based on investigations into nerve cells in goldfish.
With rising awareness surrounding these health risks, consumers are encouraged to take proactive measures in reducing their exposure to bisphenols in everyday life. As society moves toward a more sustainable and health-conscious direction, the transition to digital transaction methods may play a vital role in reducing the dangers associated with chemical exposure from traditional paper receipts.
In summary, the findings regarding BPS in paper receipts serve as a crucial reminder of the potential health risks linked to everyday transactions. Individuals must stay informed and cautious in their choices, with an eye toward improving personal and public health overall.
