BISPHENOL-BASED RECEIPTS FROM MAJOR BUSINESSES IN 2017 AND 2022. SOURCE: ECOLOGY CENTER
Most receipts from major chain stores in the U.S. contain toxic chemicals such as BPA and BPS.
The Ecology Center analyzed 144 major chain stores in 22 U.S. states and Washington, D.C., and found that 80% of their receipts contained bisphenols.
BPA is a chemical that can affect the reproductive systems of laboratory animals, but its impact on human health requires more research.
- The Ecology Center recommends that consumers decline printed receipts when possible or wash their hands after taking a receipt.
- Some retailers have pledged to switch to non-toxic receipt paper, with Walgreens planning to switch to phenol-free paper receipts at all locations by the end of 2023.
- The share of retailers and other chains using receipts containing BPA or BPS has declined from 93% in 2017 to 80%.
- The Ecology Center suggests that children should not touch receipts.
- Workers should wear disposable gloves while handling receipts and wash their hands before eating or changing the receipt rolls.
Zoom Out:
- Some retailers' receipts didn't include the chemicals in the latest round of testing, including Best Buy, Costco, Culver's, CVS, H&M, Starbucks, and Target.
