Thermal paper is commonly used in cash register receipts, labels, and tickets. It is a special fine paper coated with a material formulated to change color when exposed to heat. The use of thermal paper has raised several
toxicological concerns due to the presence of certain chemicals, most notably bisphenol A (BPA) and its substitutes, which are used as developers in the coating. This article delves into some important toxicological aspects of thermal paper.
Thermal paper is primarily coated with a mixture that includes
BPA or its alternatives, such as bisphenol S (BPS). These chemicals are used as developers that react with heat to create an image or text on the paper. BPA is a well-known industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins since the 1960s. Due to health concerns, BPS and other
bisphenol alternatives are sometimes used as replacements, although their safety profiles are not fully understood.
BPA is an
endocrine disruptor, meaning it can interfere with the body's hormone systems. Exposure to BPA is linked to a range of potential health effects, including reproductive disorders, neurological issues, and increased risk of certain cancers. The primary concern with thermal paper is
dermal absorption, as the chemical can transfer to the skin when handling receipts.
While BPS and other alternatives have been introduced to replace BPA in thermal paper, they are not necessarily safer. BPS, for instance, shares similar
chemical structures and properties with BPA, leading to comparable endocrine-disrupting effects. The lack of comprehensive studies on these substitutes means that their long-term health effects remain largely unknown, raising concerns about their widespread use.
To minimize exposure to potentially harmful chemicals in thermal paper, consumers and workers can adopt several precautionary measures:
Limit direct handling of receipts and other thermal paper products.
Use electronic receipts instead of paper ones whenever possible.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling receipts and avoid touching the face.
Consider using BPA-free and alternative-free thermal paper, although availability may vary.
For occupational settings where handling thermal paper is frequent, such as in retail or food services, protective measures like wearing gloves may be advisable to reduce
occupational exposure.
Regulations on the use of BPA in thermal paper vary by region. In the European Union, BPA has been restricted in thermal paper since 2020, prompting a shift to alternatives like BPS. In the United States, there is no federal ban on BPA in thermal paper, although some states have enacted their own restrictions. The regulatory landscape is evolving as new research emerges, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and assessment of
chemical safety.
Current research on thermal paper and its chemical components continues to explore the extent of health risks associated with exposure. Studies indicate that while BPA can be absorbed through the skin, the levels detected in the human body from handling receipts are generally low. However, cumulative exposure from various sources remains a concern. Researchers are also investigating the safety of BPA alternatives, with early findings suggesting that some may have similar endocrine-disrupting effects.
Overall, the scientific community emphasizes the importance of comprehensive testing of all bisphenol chemicals used in thermal paper to better understand their health implications. Continued research is crucial to ensure consumer safety and inform regulatory decisions.
Conclusion
Thermal paper is a widespread product that poses potential toxicological risks primarily due to the use of BPA and its alternatives. While regulatory measures and consumer awareness are slowly reducing exposure risks, the need for ongoing research and safer alternatives remains critical. By understanding the toxicological concerns associated with thermal paper, individuals and industries can take appropriate steps to minimize risk and promote safer practices.
