Beware of BPA on Receipts

Three new studies released in the last two weeks have shone a spotlight on the potential hazards of ubiquitous receipts printed on thermal paper. Receipt paper--the type that comes in rolls and becomes colorized when exposed to heat or pressure--commonly contains bisphenol-A.

Bisphenol-A, most commonly known as BPA, is a compound found in many plastics and aluminum can linings. It has properties similar to the hormone estrogen, and therefore is suspected of several possible health effects. Studies in human have shown that exposure to BPA in pregnant women may result in behavioral changes in boys and girls. In animal studies and at higher concentrations, BPA has been shown to effect gonadal development and may also be a carcinogen.

On store receipts, BPA is applied as a coating. Studies have shown that significant amounts of the chemical are transferred to the hands. It is unclear if it is then able to reach the bloodstream, and if so in what amounts.

This finding is of particular concern for two groups: cashiers, who handle receipts frequently, and children. Children’s developing bodies may be particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of BPA. Also, infants and toddler are more likely to mouth or ingest items such as receipts, potentially resulting in higher levels of exposure.

Given these new findings, we suggest the following:

-Never let your infant or toddler play with store receipts.

-If you’re pregnant, minimize your own exposure to receipt paper. If you work as a cashier, consider your exposure carefully.

-Talk to the managers at your local stores and request that they use BPA-free receipt paper. -TR

LINK(S):