Danger Lurking in Shopping Bills: How Thermal Paper Receipts May Harm Your Health

Every time you shop at a mall or big store, you likely receive a paper receipt without a second thought. But few realize that this everyday item can quietly expose you to serious health risks. Most paper receipts are printed on thermal paper, which often contains harmful chemicals like BPA (Bisphenol A) or BPS (Bisphenol S)—linked to hormonal imbalances, infertility, and even cancer.

What Is Thermal Paper and Why Is It Harmful?

Thermal paper is coated with a heat-sensitive chemical layer that reacts when passed through a thermal printer, creating the text on your receipt. This coating often contains BPA, a well-known endocrine disruptor. When you touch this paper, BPA can be absorbed through the skin, potentially leading to various health issues.

Health Risks of BPA and BPS Exposure

According to Dr. Bhupesh Kumar Sharma, forensic expert at SGT University, Gurugram, BPA disrupts the hormonal system—especially estrogen. Here's what long-term exposure may lead to:

• Hormonal Imbalance

• PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and fertility issues

• Breast and Prostate Cancer

• Thyroid dysfunction

• Neurological problems in children, such as ADHD

Who Is Most at Risk?

While BPA can affect anyone, the following groups are more vulnerable:

• Pregnant women

• Children and teenagers

• Infants, whose bodies are still developing

In these groups, BPA exposure may impact brain development, hormonal balance, and long-term health.

Tips to Avoid Harm from Paper Receipts

• Avoid touching receipts directly, especially with wet hands

• Opt for digital bills (SMS or email) whenever possible

• Don’t store receipts near food items

• Keep them away from children and pregnant women

• Wash hands after handling receipts

• Do not recycle thermal paper, as harmful chemicals can transfer to other products

Are All Receipts Dangerous?

Not necessarily. Some manufacturers now use BPA-free thermal paper, which poses less risk. However, unless it's clearly labeled, it's difficult to tell which receipts are safe.