LAHORE – We all have the tendency to store receipts around us but it could truly be unhealthy for you. Up to 90 per cent of receipts contain cancer-causing chemicals, experts have warned. Receipts which use ink that fade over time are made with ‘thermal paper’ which contains BPA (bisphenolA).
Studies have shown the chemical can lead to hormone-dependent cancers, and has previously been linked to infertility, autism, ADHD, obesity, type 2 diabetes, premature births and early onset of puberty.
There are already concerns about the public being exposed to BPA, which is often found in plastic.
We should avoid storing receipts in purses, wallets, or cars, according to Professor Nicolás Olea, from the University of Granada, Spain.
“We can recognize this kind of paper because it instantly turns black if we put it close to a heat source like, for example, a match.” Professor Olea said.
HOW TO REDUCE YOUR BPA AND BPS RECEIPT EXPOSURE
More than 90 percent of receipts contain BPA, research in January 2018 from the Michigan-based non-profit organisation The Ecology Center found.
The researchers recommend people reduce their BPA or BPS receipt exposure by:
Choosing electronic receipts if available.
Folding receipts so the printed side is facing inwards. The back is not typically coated in chemicals.
Keeping an envelope in their wallets to place receipts. This avoids them rubbing against money.
Not handing receipts to children.
Washing their hands after touching receipts.
Disposing of receipts in the trash over recycling to avoid contaminating recycled paper.
Cashiers should only print receipts when asked, wear gloves, wash their hands thoroughly and avoid touching their mouths.
