Health
Understanding the Health Risks of Thermal Paper in Receipts: A Medical Perspective by Dr. Renuka RamasamySpecialist Family Medicine – International Modern Hospital
Understanding the Health Risks of Thermal Paper in Receipts:
A Medical Perspective by Dr. Renuka Ramasamy
Specialist Family Medicine – International Modern Hospital**
In recent years, growing attention has been directed toward the health risks associated with thermal paper—especially the type used for printing invoices, receipts, and point-of-sale transactions. While most people handle receipts daily, few are aware of the chemicals embedded in this type of paper or their potential impact on long-term health.
In this article, Dr. Renuka Ramasamy, Specialist Family Medicine at International Modern Hospital, explains how thermal paper works, the chemicals involved, how exposure occurs, and why transitioning to digital receipts may be an important public-health step.
What Is Thermal Paper and How Does It Differ from Regular Paper?
Thermal paper is a specialized, heat-sensitive paper used extensively in retail shops, supermarkets, restaurants, fuel stations, and ATMs. Unlike ordinary paper, which requires ink or toner, thermal paper contains chemically coated layers that react to heat, producing text and images instantly.
Key Differences Between Thermal Paper and Regular Paper
| Feature | Thermal Paper | Regular Paper |
| Printing Method | Changes color with heat (no ink) | Requires ink, toner, or ribbons |
| Surface Texture | Smooth, glossy, sometimes waxy | Matte, fibrous |
| Chemical Coating | Contains leuco dyes + developers | No chemical coating |
| Reaction to Heat | Turns black when heated | No response to heat |
| Durability | Print may fade with heat, sunlight or oils | Generally stable |
| Environmental Impact | May contain BPA/BPS | More recyclable |
The glossy surface and the ability to darken under friction or heat are distinguishing features that indicate a piece of thermal paper.
What Chemicals Are Used in Thermal Paper and Why?
One of the major concerns about thermal paper lies in the chemical developers used to activate printing.
Bisphenol A (BPA)
Traditionally, BPA has been the most common color-developer used in thermal paper.
Its role:
When heat is applied by the thermal print head, BPA chemically reacts with leuco dyes to produce the familiar black print on receipts.
Bisphenol S (BPS)
With increasing regulatory pressure against BPA, manufacturers began substituting it with BPS.
Its role:
BPS performs the same function—developing color upon heat activation—making it an effective alternative, though with similar health concerns.
Both substances belong to a family of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, raising questions about their long-term effects.
How Do These Chemicals Transfer to the Human Body?
According to Dr. Renuka Ramasamy, BPA and BPS can transfer from thermal paper to the skin during normal handling. Several important points explain how this happens:
- The chemicals sit loosely on the surface of thermal paper and can rub off easily.
- Skin absorption is possible, though the rate is relatively low.
- Frequent or prolonged contact increases exposure—important for cashiers, retail workers, and people who handle receipts repeatedly.
- Hand sanitizers or lotions significantly increase absorption, as they break down the skin barrier and dissolve BPA/BPS, enhancing transfer.
While diet remains the primary source of BPA exposure for most people, repeated contact with receipts can measurably contribute to chemical levels in the body.
What Are the Proven Long-Term Health Effects?
Scientific research has linked BPA—and increasingly BPS—to several biological and hormonal disruptions.
Long-Term Health Risks of BPA
- Hormonal imbalance (endocrine disruption)
- Reduced fertility and reproductive health effects
- Metabolic changes linked to obesity and diabetes
- Cardiovascular abnormalities
- Developmental effects in unborn babies and children
- Potential association with breast and prostate cancer
- Neurobehavioral changes
Long-Term Health Risks of BPS
Though less studied, BPS shows similar endocrine-disrupting behavior, with evidence suggesting:
- Hormonal disruption
- Fertility-related effects
- Thyroid hormone interference
- Increased metabolic disorders
- Cardiovascular and neurodevelopmental concerns
“These chemicals can interfere with hormone function even at very low concentrations,” explains Dr. Renuka.
Is the Link to Hormonal Imbalances, Fertility Problems, and Cancer Medically Accurate?
Dr. Renuka emphasizes three key points:
- The link to hormone disruption is well-established.
BPA and BPS both mimic estrogen, interfering with natural hormonal pathways. - There is credible evidence associating chronic exposure with fertility problems.
This includes effects on sperm quality, ovulation, and reproductive hormones. - Cancer links remain under investigation.
Laboratory studies suggest a possible relationship, but current human data are not conclusive.
Thus, concerns are medically valid, but the risk depends on frequency, duration, and combined exposure sources.
Should BPA and BPS Thermal Papers Be Banned? Dr. Renuka’s Perspective
As a Family Medicine Specialist, Dr. Renuka supports transitioning away from BPA/BPS thermal papers, especially in environments with high exposure.
Why a Phase-Out Is Necessary
- Reduces exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals
- Protects retail workers and high-contact professionals
- Supports environmental safety
- Encourages modern, sustainable alternatives
Why Digital Invoices Are Preferable
Digital receipts:
- Reduce chemical exposure
- Decrease paper waste
- Improve record-keeping
- Allow safer consumer interactions
While implementation challenges exist—such as customer preferences and data privacy—Dr. Renuka believes they are manageable through hybrid systems and gradual adoption.
Final Thoughts from Dr. Renuka Ramasamy
“Thermal paper may appear harmless, but the chemicals embedded in it have well-documented biological effects. While occasional contact is unlikely to cause harm, repeated exposure—especially in workplaces—deserves attention. Transitioning to safer alternatives, including digital receipts, is a practical and effective step toward protecting both individual and public health.”