Health experts are warning about a chemical found in paper receipts that could potentially disrupt your hormones. A recent announcement by the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) highlighted that 32 retailers might be using receipts with high levels of Bisphenol S (BPS). BPS is described as a lesser-known but harmful cousin to BPA, commonly found in receipt paper, and it’s known to interfere with the body’s natural functions, such as metabolism and reproduction.
The CEH has issued a notice of violation against these companies, which include several national chains. The organization pointed out that BPS is absorbed through the skin when handling receipts, even if only for a short time. Studies showed that holding a receipt laced with BPS for just 10 seconds could expose individuals to potentially harmful levels of the chemical.
According to Mihir Vohra, the CEH’s Science Lead, the concentration of BPS in these receipts was alarmingly high. This exposure surpasses the safe harbor level, necessitating clear warnings to consumers. If the retailers do not comply by providing warnings or reformulating their products, CEH plans to take legal action against them.
To minimize risks, CEH suggests consumers should opt for digital receipts where possible. Shakoora Azimi-Gaylon, a senior director at CEH, advised that store workers should use gloves when handling receipts or avoid alcohol-based hand sanitizers, which can increase BPS absorption. Receipts are made from thermal paper that contains bisphenols, which pose environmental risks and should not be recycled.
Fox News medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel mentioned that digital receipts are becoming more common, which might help reduce exposure to BPS. He pointed out that people might not realize they are exposed to Bisphenol A (BPA) in everyday items, like phone cases. This highlights the need for more research into these “forever chemicals” and their impact on health, particularly concerning fertility.
Dr. Siegel emphasized that these chemicals are pervasive and expressed the importance of better documentation and strategies to limit exposure. In the past few years, BPS has come under scrutiny for its potential health risks. For instance, a 2021 study by German researchers indicated that BPS could cause serious damage to human brains, as observed in experiments with goldfish nerve cells.
The topic of endocrine disruptors like BPS and BPA continues to be a significant concern for both health and environmental reasons. As more information comes to light, it’s becoming increasingly important for consumers and retailers to be aware of the potential risks. The CEH’s efforts aim to push for changes that could lead to safer alternatives in everyday transactions, like purchasing goods with digital receipts instead of paper ones.
