Bisphenol A (BPA) is a dangerous toxin that many of us are unknowingly coming into contact with on a regular basis. BPA exposure has been linked to serious health issues, including cancer, birth defects, and diabetes. One of the most significant sources of BPA exposure comes from handling store receipts – an ordinary activity most of us engage in every time we shop.
BPA: A Pervasive Problem
Initially developed as an estrogen supplement, BPA is now used in a wide range of products to which we are exposed daily. These include dental composites, water bottles, linings of soft drink cans, and food containers. BPA is an endocrine-disrupting chemical, which means it interferes with the normal functioning of the hormone system.
Researcher Frederick vom Saal, who has extensively studied BPA, explains its dangers: “As an endocrine disrupting chemical, BPA has been demonstrated to alter signaling mechanisms involving estrogen and other hormones.” Despite the potential risks, BPA is still commonly found in many products we use daily.
Thermal Paper Receipts: A Significant Source of BPA Exposure
What may surprise many people is that one of the most prominent sources of BPA exposure comes from an item we regularly touch: store receipts. Thermal paper receipts used by retailers, fast food restaurants, airlines, and ATMs contain BPA on the surface of the paper as a print developer.
A study conducted by vom Saal at the University of Missouri found that store receipts might be the leading source of BPA entering our bloodstream. He explains, “The problem is, we as consumers have hand sanitizers, hand creams, soaps, and sunscreens on our hands that drastically alter the absorption rate of the BPA found on these receipts.”
Hand Sanitizer, Receipts, and BPA Absorption
When we apply hand sanitizer and then handle a store receipt containing BPA, we absorb a shockingly large amount of the harmful chemical. So, a seemingly innocent routine of sanitizing our hands and grabbing a receipt can actually put our health at risk.
Think about how often you apply hand sanitizer, handle a receipt, and then eat food you pick up with your hands, such as french fries. This common sequence of events may significantly increase your risk of absorbing dangerous levels of BPA.
Protecting Yourself from BPA Exposure
Given the prevalence of BPA in everyday items and the potential for serious health consequences, it’s essential to take steps to minimize your exposure. Here are some tips for reducing your BPA absorption:
- Avoid touching receipts: When possible, choose an e-receipt or have the cashier place the receipt directly into your bag. If you must handle a receipt, try to touch it as little as possible.
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Wash your hands after handling receipts: If you’ve touched a receipt, wash your hands with soap and water before touching other items or eating.
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Be cautious with hand sanitizer: Avoid applying hand sanitizer before handling receipts, as this can increase the rate of BPA absorption through your skin.
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Go BPA-free: Opt for BPA-free products, especially when it comes to items that frequently come into contact with your food or drink, such as water bottles or food containers.
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Eat fresh and cook at home: Processed and canned foods are more likely to contain BPA in their packaging. By cooking at home using fresh ingredients, you can reduce your BPA exposure.
While it’s impossible to avoid all BPA exposure, being mindful of the sources of this harmful toxin and making simple changes to your daily routine can significantly decrease the risk to your health. By taking steps like avoiding direct contact with store receipts and using BPA-free products whenever possible, you can protect yourself and your family from the dangers of BPA exposure.
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