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BPA and BPS: The dangerous Chemicals Hiding in Our Everyday Objects

Sanux Team

01 Oct 2023 — 16 min read

Photo by Volodymyr Hryshchenko / Unsplash

I just got back from an amazing overseas trip, that apart from friends and delicious meals included shopping and lots of receipts that reminded me about something I have not written about before, BPA and BPS.

Here’s what you want to know and what you can do about it.

What are BPA and BPS?

BPA (Bisphenol A) and BPS (Bisphenol S) are both chemical compounds that have been used in the production of plastics and other consumer products. They are part of a group of chemicals known as bisphenols.

1. BPA (Bisphenol A):

BPA is a synthetic compound that has been used primarily in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins.
Polycarbonate plastics made with BPA have been used in a wide range of consumer products, including water bottles, food containers, and eyeglass lenses.
Epoxy resins containing BPA are used to line the inside of metal-based food and beverage cans to prevent corrosion and contamination.
BPA has been a subject of concern because it can leach into food and beverages from containers and has been found to mimic estrogen in the human body. Some studies have suggested potential health risks associated with BPA exposure, including hormonal disruption.

2. BPS (Bisphenol S):

BPS is a chemical compound that has been used as a replacement for BPA in some products, especially after concerns about BPA's health effects emerged.
Like BPA, BPS can be found in various consumer products, including plastics, thermal paper receipts, and some personal care products.
While BPS was initially considered a safer alternative to BPA, recent research has raised concerns about its potential health effects. Some studies suggest that BPS may have similar endocrine-disrupting properties to BPA.

Both BPA and BPS have faced scrutiny due to their potential to disrupt hormones and their presence in everyday items. As a result, many manufacturers have sought alternatives or have started producing BPA-free and BPS-free products.

Where are they present?

BPA (Bisphenol A) and BPS (Bisphenol S) can be found in a range of consumer products, although their presence and use can vary by region and over time due to changing regulations and consumer preferences. Here is a list of some common products that may contain BPA, BPS, or both:

1. Polycarbonate Plastics:

Water bottles
Food containers
Baby bottles
Sippy cups
Eyeglass lenses
CDs and DVDs
Some dental sealants

2. Epoxy Resins:

Lining of metal-based food and beverage cans
Coating on thermal paper receipts
Dental materials, such as dental composites and sealants

3. Personal Care Products:

Some cosmetics and toiletries (BPA or BPS may be used in packaging or as an ingredient in some products)
Sunscreen bottles
Shampoo and conditioner bottles

4. Medical Devices:

Some medical equipment and devices may contain BPA or BPS in certain components.

5. Electronics:

Some electronic components, particularly in older devices, may contain BPA in plastics and epoxy resins.

6. Automotive Parts:

Some automotive components, such as certain plastics used in interiors, may contain BPA.

7. Sports Equipment:

Some sports equipment, like helmets and goggles, may contain polycarbonate plastics that could include BPA.

8. Consumer Electronics:

Older electronic devices or components may contain BPA in plastics.

When purchasing products, especially those that come into contact with food or beverages, consumers can look for labels that indicate "BPA-free" or "BPS-free" to minimize exposure to these chemicals.

What demographics use them?

The following demographics are more likely to be exposed to BPA from these products:

Infants and children: Infants and children are at higher risk of exposure to BPA because they are more likely to put things in their mouths and have more sensitive developing bodies.
Pregnant women: Pregnant women are also at higher risk of exposure to BPA because it can pass through the placenta to the developing fetus.
People who work in certain industries: People who work in industries that manufacture or use BPA-containing products are at higher risk of exposure.
People who live in poverty: People who live in poverty are more likely to be exposed to BPA because they may be more likely to use older products that contain BPA and to live in areas with higher levels of environmental pollution.

If you are concerned about BPA exposure, there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

Avoid using polycarbonate plastic food and beverage containers, especially for hot food and drinks.
Choose BPA-free dental sealants.
Avoid canned foods that are labeled with recycle code 3 or 7.
Choose BPA-free toys for your children.
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling receipts.
Avoid touching your face or mouth after handling receipts.
Ask for an electronic receipt instead of a paper receipt whenever possible.

Why are Infants, children, and Pregnant women at higher risk?

Infants, children, and pregnant women are at higher risk of the harmful effects of BPA and BPS because their bodies are still developing. These chemicals can interfere with the hormones that are responsible for growth, development, and reproduction.

For example, exposure to BPA and BPS has been linked to early puberty in girls, reduced sperm quality in boys, and neurodevelopmental problems such as ADHD and autism. In pregnant women, exposure to BPA and BPS has been linked to miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight.

How is it linked to autism and miscarriage?

Miscarriage: One study, published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, found that pregnant women who were exposed to high levels of BPA had a higher risk of miscarriage. Another study, published in the journal Human Reproduction, found that pregnant women who were exposed to high levels of BPS had a higher risk of early pregnancy loss.

Autism: One study, published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, found that children whose mothers were exposed to high levels of BPA during pregnancy were more likely to have autism. Another study, published in the journal Pediatrics, found that children whose mothers were exposed to high levels of BPS during pregnancy were more likely to have social communication problems.

Why is BPA and BPS use so common?

The use of BPA (Bisphenol A) and BPS (Bisphenol S) in various products became common for several reasons:

Versatility: BPA and BPS are versatile chemicals that can be used in the production of a wide range of consumer goods. They have desirable properties such as durability, heat resistance, and the ability to create clear, shatter-resistant plastics.
Affordability: BPA and BPS are cost-effective to produce, making them attractive options for manufacturers seeking to keep production costs low.
Durability: Products made with BPA and BPS are often more durable and long-lasting, which can lead to reduced replacement costs for consumers.
Heat Resistance: These chemicals are known for their heat resistance, making them suitable for use in products that come into contact with hot liquids or foods, such as food can linings and baby bottles.
Sealants and Coatings: BPA and BPS are used as sealants and coatings in a variety of applications, including protecting metal-based food and beverage cans from corrosion and contamination.
Clarity: In the case of polycarbonate plastics, BPA contributes to clarity and transparency, making it suitable for products like eyeglass lenses and clear food containers.
Historical Use: BPA, in particular, has been in use for decades, and many products and industries had been relying on it before concerns about its potential health effects arose.

However, as concerns about the health risks associated with BPA and BPS exposure have grown, especially their potential to disrupt hormones, many manufacturers and industries have taken steps to reduce or eliminate their use. This has led to the development of BPA-free and BPS-free alternatives for many products.

What are the main reasons for its uses?

The main reasons for the use of BPA (Bisphenol A) and BPS (Bisphenol S) in various products include:

Material Properties: BPA and BPS are known for their desirable material properties. They can be used to create plastics and coatings with specific characteristics, such as transparency, durability, and heat resistance. These properties make them suitable for a wide range of applications.
Affordability: BPA and BPS are cost-effective to produce, making them economically attractive options for manufacturers. Their affordability contributes to the widespread use of these chemicals in consumer products.
Durability: Products made with BPA and BPS tend to be durable and long-lasting. This durability can lead to reduced replacement costs for consumers and can be particularly important in industries where products need to withstand wear and tear.
Heat Resistance: BPA and BPS are heat-resistant, which is a crucial factor for products that come into contact with hot substances or are exposed to high temperatures. For example, they are used in the lining of metal-based food and beverage cans to prevent corrosion and contamination.
Clarity and Transparency: BPA, in particular, contributes to the clarity and transparency of certain plastics, such as polycarbonate. This property makes it suitable for products like eyeglass lenses, clear food containers, and bottles.
Sealants and Coatings: BPA and BPS are used as sealants and coatings to protect materials and surfaces. For example, they are used to coat thermal paper receipts to create a visible image when heated.
Historical Use: BPA has been used in the production of consumer goods for decades. Many products and industries had been relying on BPA before concerns about its potential health effects came to the forefront. This historical use contributed to its widespread adoption.

When was BPA discovered and for how long it has been research?

Bisphenol A (BPA) was first synthesized in 1891 by the Russian chemist Aleksandr Dianin. However, it was not until the 1950s that BPA began to be widely used in the production of plastics.

BPA was first researched for its estrogen-mimicking properties in the 1930s. However, it was not until the 1990s that scientists began to seriously investigate the potential health risks of BPA exposure. Since then, there has been a growing body of research on BPA exposure and its potential health effects.

BPA has been shown to be a ubiquitous environmental contaminant, meaning that it is found in the air, water, and soil. BPA can also be found in the blood and urine of humans. BPA exposure can occur through a variety of routes, including ingestion, inhalation, and dermal absorption.

Research on BPA has shown that it can have a variety of negative health effects, including:

Reproductive problems, such as infertility and reduced sperm quality
Early puberty in girls
Increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer
Neurodevelopmental problems in children, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, and learning disabilities
Cardiovascular disease
Type 2 diabetes
Obesity
Metabolic syndrome

How long did it take to be regulated?

The regulation of BPA (Bisphenol A) has evolved over several decades, and the timeline for regulatory actions varies by country and region. Here is a general overview of the regulatory history of BPA:

1960s and 1970s: BPA began to be used in the production of various consumer products, primarily as a component of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. During this period, its potential health effects were not well-understood, and its use was not heavily regulated.
1990s: Concerns about the potential health risks of BPA began to emerge as research suggested that it could mimic estrogen in the human body and potentially disrupt hormones. Some regulatory agencies and health organizations initiated reviews and assessments of BPA's safety.
2000s: Regulatory actions and research intensified. Several countries, including Canada and the European Union, began taking steps to restrict or ban the use of BPA in baby bottles and other products intended for children. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted safety assessments and expressed some concerns but did not ban the use of BPA in all products.
2010s: The regulatory landscape continued to evolve. The FDA took further action by banning BPA in baby bottles and sippy cups in 2012. Several U.S. states also implemented their own regulations related to BPA in children's products. In 2015, the FDA updated its assessment, indicating that BPA in food packaging was safe at current levels of exposure. However, this assessment has been met with ongoing debate and scrutiny.
2020s: The regulatory status of BPA continued to vary by region. Some countries and regions had implemented restrictions on its use in certain products, while others had not. The FDA's stance on BPA remained a topic of discussion and potential change.

It is important to note that even if a country has banned or regulated BPA and BPS in certain products, these chemicals may still be present in other products that are imported from countries that do not have such regulations. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential risks of exposure to BPA and BPS and to take steps to reduce your exposure.

What about BPA in Thermal Paper Receipts?

Thermal paper is a type of paper that is coated with a chemical that changes color when heated. This is the type of paper that is used in most cash registers and credit card terminals to print receipts.

BPA is used in thermal paper as a color developer. When the paper is heated, the BPA reacts with other chemicals to produce a dark image. However, BPA is also a known endocrine disruptor, which means that it can interfere with the body's hormonal system.

Research on BPA Exposure from Receipts

A number of studies have shown that people can be exposed to BPA from thermal paper receipts. One study found that cashiers, who handle receipts all day long, had higher levels of BPA in their urine than people in other professions. Another study found that people who handled receipts had higher levels of BPA in their urine than people who did not handle receipts.

BPA can be absorbed into the body through the skin, so even touching a receipt can expose you to the chemical. BPA can also be transferred from receipts to food, especially if the receipt is greasy or wet.

Health Risks of BPA Exposure

BPA exposure has been linked to a number of health problems, including:
Reproductive problems, such as infertility and reduced sperm quality
Early puberty in girls
Increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer
Neurodevelopmental problems in children

How to Reduce BPA Exposure from Receipts

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your exposure to BPA from receipts:

Wash your hands thoroughly after handling receipts.
Avoid touching your face or mouth after handling receipts.
Ask for an electronic receipt instead of a paper receipt whenever possible.
Choose receipts that are printed on BPA-free paper.

What are the long and short term negative effects from BPA exposure

The short- and long-term negative effects of BPA exposure are still being studied, but there is some evidence that BPA exposure may be linked to a number of health problems, including:

Short-term effects:

Headache
Nausea
Vomiting
Increased blood pressure
Heart palpitations
Fatigue
Irritability
Insomnia

Long-term effects:

Reproductive problems, such as infertility and reduced sperm quality
Early puberty in girls
Increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer
Neurodevelopmental problems in children, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, and learning disabilities
Cardiovascular disease
Type 2 diabetes
Obesity
Metabolic syndrome

BPA exposure may also be linked to other health problems, such as asthma, allergies, and autoimmune diseases.

While It is important to note that the health effects of BPA exposure are complex and depend on a number of factors, including the dose, the duration of exposure, and the individual's susceptibility. However, even low levels of BPA exposure may have negative health effects, especially in infants, children, and pregnant women.

How to reduce BPA exposure

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your exposure to BPA, such as:

Avoid using polycarbonate plastic food and beverage containers, especially for hot food and drinks.
Choose BPA-free dental sealants.
Avoid canned foods that are labeled with recycle code 3 or 7.
Choose BPA-free toys for your children.
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling receipts.
Avoid touching your face or mouth after handling receipts.
Ask for an electronic receipt instead of a paper receipt whenever possible.

What are other less know facts about BPA and how to avoid them?

Here are some lesser known facts about BPA and how to avoid them:

BPA can be found in dust. BPA can leach from plastic products into the air and dust in your home. To reduce your exposure to BPA dust, you can dust regularly and vacuum with a HEPA filter.
BPA can be found in food packaging. Even if a food product is labeled "BPA-free," the packaging may still contain BPA. To reduce your exposure to BPA from food packaging, you can choose fresh, whole foods over processed foods whenever possible.
BPA can be found in personal care products. Some personal care products, such as shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste, may contain BPA. To reduce your exposure to BPA from personal care products, you can choose products that are labeled "BPA-free."

Here are some additional tips for avoiding BPA:

Avoid using plastic food and beverage containers in the microwave or dishwasher. Heat can cause BPA to leach from plastic containers into food and drinks.
Do not reuse plastic water bottles or food storage containers. Over time, plastic can break down and release BPA into food and drinks.
Choose glass, ceramic, or stainless steel food and beverage containers whenever possible. These materials do not contain BPA.
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling thermal paper receipts. BPA can be absorbed through the skin.

What are the best examples of healthcare intervention in regards to BPA?

Public awareness campaigns: Public awareness campaigns can help to educate people about the potential health risks of BPA exposure and how to reduce their exposure.
Product labeling: Product labeling can help people to identify and avoid products that contain BPA.
Bans on BPA in certain products: Some countries have banned the use of BPA in certain products, such as baby bottles and sippy cups.
BPA screening and monitoring programs: BPA screening and monitoring programs can help to identify people who have high levels of BPA exposure and provide them with counseling and support.

Here are some examples of countries that have implemented healthcare interventions to reduce BPA exposure:

Canada: Canada has banned the use of BPA in baby bottles and sippy cups.
Denmark: Denmark has banned the use of BPA in all products intended for children under the age of 3.
France: France has banned the use of BPA in baby bottles and food packaging for infants and children under the age of 3.
Japan: Japan has banned the use of BPA in baby bottles and sippy cups.
Sweden: Sweden has banned the use of BPA in all products intended for children under the age of 3.

Australia and the United States have not implemented any national bans on BPA in consumer products. However, both countries have taken some steps to address the potential health risks of BPA exposure.

In Australia, the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has set limits on the amount of BPA that can be present in food packaging. FSANZ has also banned the use of BPA in baby bottles and sippy cups.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the use of BPA in baby bottles and sippy cups. The FDA has also set limits on the amount of BPA that can be present in food packaging.

However, both the Australian and US governments have been criticized for not taking more aggressive action to reduce BPA exposure. Public health advocates have called for bans on BPA in all products intended for children and pregnant women. They have also called for more research on the health effects of BPA exposure.

In addition to the healthcare interventions listed above, there are a number of things that individuals can do to reduce their exposure to BPA, such as:

Avoid using polycarbonate plastic food and beverage containers, especially for hot food and drinks.
Choose BPA-free dental sealants.
Avoid canned foods that are labeled with recycle code 3 or 7.
Choose BPA-free toys for your children.
Wash your hands thoroughly after handling receipts.
Avoid touching your face or mouth after handling receipts.
Ask for an electronic receipt instead of a paper receipt whenever possible.
Eat a healthy diet and avoid processed foods whenever possible.

Can BPA cause cancer?

BPA is a known endocrine disruptor, which means that it can interfere with the body's hormonal system. Hormonal disruption has been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer.

There is some evidence that BPA may be linked to certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, and endometrial cancer. However, the research on BPA and cancer is still ongoing, and more research is needed to determine the full extent of the risk.

Some studies have found that people with higher levels of BPA exposure are more likely to develop certain types of cancer. Other studies have found no link between BPA exposure and cancer.

What are the mechanisms for BPA and BPS as endocrine disruptors?

Both BPA and BPS are endocrine disruptors, which means that they can interfere with the body's hormonal system. They do this by mimicking or blocking the effects of natural hormones.

The mechanisms by which BPA and BPS act as endocrine disruptors are not fully understood, but they are thought to be related to their ability to bind to hormone receptors. Hormone receptors are proteins that sit on the surface of cells and detect hormones. When a hormone binds to its receptor, it triggers a signal that tells the cell to perform a certain function.

BPA and BPS can bind to estrogen receptors, which are receptors for the hormone estrogen. Estrogen is a hormone that plays a role in many important bodily functions, including reproduction, development, and cell growth. When BPA or BPS binds to an estrogen receptor, it can activate or block the effects of estrogen, depending on the receptor type and the cell type.

BPA and BPS can also bind to other hormone receptors, such as androgen receptors and thyroid receptors. These receptors are responsible for other important bodily functions, such as male development and metabolism. When BPA or BPS binds to these receptors, it can also interfere with their normal function.

Are BPA and BPS considered a health threat?

BPA and BPS are considered a global health threat due to their potential to cause harm to human health. BPA is classified as a hazardous chemical in the EU due to its ability to damage fertility, cause serious eye damage, allergic skin reactions, and respiratory irritation. It is also an endocrine disruptor that can affect reproductive function, mammary gland development, cognitive function, and metabolism.

BPS, on the other hand, was included on the REACH Candidate List as a substance of very high concern due to its endocrine disrupting and reproductive toxic properties. Although studies employing standardized toxicity tests used globally for regulatory decision-making indicate that the levels of BPA and BPS in humans and the environment are below levels of potential concern for adverse effects, some authorities have taken action to protect sensitive populations, particularly infants and young children.

What are the 3 biggest takeaways to avoid BPA and BPS?

Avoid thermal paper receipts whenever possible. Thermal paper receipts contain BPA and BPS, which can leach onto your skin when you touch them. To avoid exposure, ask the cashier not to print a receipt, or wash your hands thoroughly after handling a receipt.
Avoid contact with plastic food packaging, especially if the packaging is damaged or scratched. BPA and BPS can leach from plastic food packaging into food and drinks. To reduce exposure, choose fresh or frozen foods over canned foods whenever possible, and avoid using plastic food containers that are damaged or scratched.
Choose BPA-free and BPS-free products whenever possible. BPA and BPS are found in a wide variety of products, including toys, personal care products, and medical devices. To reduce exposure, look for products that are labeled "BPA-free" and "BPS-free."

It is important to note that it can be difficult to completely avoid exposure to BPA and BPS, as they are found in so many products. However, by following these tips, you can help to reduce your exposure and protect yourself from the potential health risks of these chemicals.

Here are some additional tips to help you reduce your exposure to BPA and BPS:

Wash your hands thoroughly before eating and drinking, especially after handling thermal paper receipts or plastic food packaging.
Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers, as this can cause BPA and BPS to leach into the food.
Eat a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods contain antioxidants and other nutrients that can help to protect your body from the harmful effects of BPA and BPS.
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Citations:

Uncovering the World Health Organization's Hidden Impact on Global Health Equity

E-Cigarettes and Vaping: A Changing Landscape of Risks and Regulations

Mind, Body, Health: Understanding the Powerful Interconnections That Define Well-being

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