Hold on to your receipts—or rather, let them go! Health experts have issued a striking warning about a harmful chemical lurking in those seemingly innocent paper slips. Recent findings reveal that handling receipts for as little as 10 seconds can expose you to Bisphenol S (BPS), a slick endocrine disruptor that poses serious health risks.

What Is This Dangerous Chemical?

According to the Center for Environmental Health (CEH), BPS is a lesser-known but dangerous cousin of the notorious Bisphenol A (BPA). Both chemicals mimic estrogen and mess with your body's normal functions like metabolism, growth, and reproduction.

A Shocking Discovery!

In an alarming statement issued on April 14, the CEH announced that 32 retailers had been flagged for selling receipts with dangerously high levels of BPS. The organization revealed that a mere 10 seconds of holding a BPS-infused receipt could put you above the 'safe' exposure levels.

Mihir Vohra, Science Lead for CEH, stated, "Touching just one receipt with BPS for 10 seconds resulted in exposure above the safe harbor level, necessitating clear warnings for consumers." Expect legal action against these retailers unless they provide warnings or reformulate their products.

Protect Yourself!

So what can you do? The CEH is advising consumers to opt for digital receipts whenever possible and to refuse paper ones. For those working jobs where they must handle receipts, it’s recommended to wear gloves or avoid alcohol-based hand sanitizers beforehand, as these can significantly increase BPS absorption.

Digital Receipts to the Rescue?

As most of us are already shifting towards digital receipts, medical experts like Dr. Marc Siegel emphasize the growing importance of eliminating unnecessary exposure to chemicals like BPS. While many Americans unknowingly expose themselves to BPA through everyday items, digital alternatives could help mitigate these health risks.

The Bigger Picture: 'Forever Chemicals'

The growing concern around so-called 'forever chemicals,' which BPS is a part of, can't be overlooked. They permeate our environment and potentially affect fertility and overall health.

Indeed, the research is ongoing, but experts warn that measures need to be taken to limit exposure to these harmful substances.

Final Thoughts

Be proactive about your health! Declining paper receipts and moving towards digital options can make a world of difference. After all, when it comes to hazardous chemicals, it’s better to be safe than sorry!