Receipts Contain Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS): An Explanation
In the realm of everyday consumer products, a concern that has been gaining attention is the presence of certain chemicals in thermal receipts. Two such chemicals, BPA (Bisphenol A) and its substitute BPS (Bisphenol S), have been under scrutiny for their potential health risks.
Both BPA and BPS are endocrine disruptors, capable of interfering with certain hormones in the body. While BPA has been a topic of concern for some time, BPS, a substitute used in thermal receipt paper, is now coming under the spotlight for its similar harmful effects. BPS mimics estrogen and can disrupt hormone functions related to metabolism, growth, development, and reproduction.
A worrying aspect is that BPS can be absorbed through the skin even with short contact durations. For instance, a study has shown that exposure above safe limits can occur after touching a receipt for just 10 seconds. BPS has been linked to female reproductive toxicity and is classified as a reproductive toxicant and endocrine disruptor by scientific authorities.
In terms of regulation, the situation varies across the globe. In California, BPS was added to the list of chemicals known to cause reproductive harm at the end of 2023, triggering requirements for businesses to either remove it or provide clear warnings by the end of 2024. Meanwhile, BPA-containing thermal receipt papers are banned in the UK, but BPS receipts remain legal there as of mid-2025. European chemical authorities classify BPS as a reproductive toxicant and endocrine disruptor, highlighting its hazardous nature, though a full ban is not explicitly stated.
As the use of BPA is increasingly restricted globally, BPS is under growing scrutiny due to similar health concerns. This has prompted some companies and regions to seek safer, BPA- and BPS-free alternatives.
In light of these findings, it is advisable for consumers to minimise handling of thermal receipts to reduce exposure. Leaving a thermal till receipt is also advised, as it will likely end up in the bin. However, it's important to note that links have been made between BPAs and cancer, but Cancer Research UK states there's insufficient evidence for this claim.
For those with further questions, you can email the website or message their Facebook, X, or Instagram pages. It's also worth noting that BPAs are commonly found in consumer products such as plastic water bottles and canned food. Furthermore, 'forever chemicals' are now found in half of fruits and vegetables, another concern that warrants attention.
This article answers a question posed by Calum Torres from Norwich about whether receipts are covered in chemicals. For more information on this topic and others, visit our website.
- The concern over certain chemicals in thermal receipts, such as BPA and BPS, has been intensifying due to their potential health risks as endocrine disruptors.
- BPS, a substitute for BPA in thermal receipt paper, is now facing scrutiny for its similar harmful effects on hormones related to metabolism, growth, development, and reproduction.
- A study has shown that BPS can be absorbed through the skin during short contact durations, leading to exposure above safe limits even after touching a receipt for just 10 seconds.
- Regulations regarding BPS and BPA in thermal receipt papers vary globally; for instance, BPA-containing receipts are banned in the UK, while BPS receipts remain legal as of mid-2025.
- As the use of BPA is increasingly being restricted, BPS is under growing scrutiny due to similar health concerns, resulting in some companies and regions seeking safer, BPA- and BPS-free alternatives.
- In an effort to reduce exposure to these chemicals, it is advisable for consumers to minimize handling of thermal receipts and consider leaving them at the checkout, as there are concerns linking BPAs to cancer, though more evidence is needed to definitively establish this connection.
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