“Based on these studies and testing by an independent lab, the concentrations were so high that touching only 1 receipt with BPS for 10 seconds resulted in exposure above the safe harbor level which requires a clear and reasonable warning to consumers,” said Mihir Vohra, Science Lead at CEH.
The chemicals are added as a coating to thermal paper to help ink develop. Some alternatives exist, but many are also toxic, and the non-profit is urging companies to use something safe to avoid “playing Whac-a-Mole” with dangerous chemicals, said Kizzy Charles-Guzman, the CEH’s executive director. Some paper is treated with vitamin C, but the receipts aren’t as bright.
Full list of retailers: Burger King, Famous Footwear, Capital One, Claire’s, Converse, Crumbl, Daiso, Forever 21, Subway, Foot Locker, Champs, Lids, Jack in the Box, Nordstrom Rack, Peet’s Coffee & Tea, JCPenney, Pressed, Spencer’s, The Cheesecake Factory, Gap Outlet, Victoria’s Secret, Wetzel’s Pretzels, Yard House, Smart & Final, Office Depot, Staples, Alliance Thermal Paper, Chanel, Dollar General, AMC, GameStop, and Cinnabon.
