What is BPA and why is it a problem?
Trace BPA exposure has been shown to disrupt the “endocrine system and trigger a wide variety of disorders, including chromosomal and reproductive system abnormalities, impaired brain and neurological functions, cancer, cardiovascular system damage, adult-onset diabetes, early puberty, obesity and resistance to chemotherapy.”
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Why are receipts a bigger problem than plastic or cans?
BPA hides in receipts at 250 to 1,000 times greater levels than plastic or cans. The exposure a person gets from plastic is measured in nanograms, which is quite minimal, while the level of BPA on receipts is in the 60-100 milligram range. Also greasy or moist hands transmit BPA at 10x higher rates.
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Can’t I just wash my hands and avoid eating receipts?
Unfortunately not, a recent study shows that the BPA cannot be washed off and enters the blood stream through the skin at such a level that it cannot be removed once it is touched.
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I’m concerned about other chemicals in my life, where can I find reliable information about other dangerous chemicals and lurking hazards?
This website is invaluable in the search for natural and truly safe household items, cosmetics, body and health care items.
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Tips to reduce exposures to BPA in receipts
• Minimize receipt collection by declining receipts at gas pumps, ATMs and other machines when possible.
• Store receipts separately in an envelope in a wallet or purse.
• Never give a child a receipt to hold or play with.
• After handling a receipt, wash hands before preparing and eating food (a universally recommended practice even for those who have not handled receipts).
• Do not use alcohol-based hand cleaners after handling receipts. A recent study showed that these products can increase the skin's BPA absorption. (Biedermann 2010).
• Take advantage of store services that email or archive paperless purchase records.
• Do not recycle receipts and other thermal paper. BPA residues from receipts will contaminate recycled paper.
• If you are unsure, check whether paper is thermally treated by rubbing it with a coin. Thermal paper discolors with the friction; conventional paper does not.
