Do Store Receipts Have BPA, and Should I Avoid Touching Them?

By Dr. Ryan Kneessi, ND, Move Forward Natural Health. Last reviewed October 23, 2026.

Receipts are something we touch dozens of times a week without thinking about it. They are also one of the simplest everyday exposures to cut back on.

Why do receipts contain BPA?

Thermal paper uses a heat-sensitive coating to print without ink. For many years that coating used bisphenol A, often called BPA, and some papers now use related bisphenols. The coating sits on the outside of the paper, so it can rub off onto your fingers.

Does hand sanitizer make a difference?

Researchers at the University of Missouri had volunteers use hand sanitizer, hold a thermal receipt, and then eat french fries with their hands. They reported that BPA levels in blood and urine climbed quickly, within about an hour and a half. Some ingredients in hand sanitizers are designed to help things move through the skin, which is why the combination matters.

How can I cut back on receipt exposure?

Choose emailed or no receipts when you can, and fold paper receipts with the printed side in if you need to keep them. Try not to handle receipts right after using hand sanitizer or lotion, and wash your hands with soap and water before you eat. If you work a register, these habits are worth sharing with your team.

What other everyday exposures are easy to change?

Receipts are one small piece. My free Clean Home Swap guide covers simple changes in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room, with one easy swap at a time.

Frequently asked questions

Do all receipts contain BPA?

Not all, but many thermal paper receipts have used BPA or related bisphenols in their coating. It is hard to tell by looking at them.

Is it worse to touch receipts after using hand sanitizer?

A 2014 study found that holding receipts right after using hand sanitizer and then eating with your hands led to a rapid rise in BPA levels.

What is the easiest way to avoid receipt BPA?

Choose an emailed receipt or no receipt, and wash your hands with soap and water before eating.

Sources

1. Hormann AM, et al. Holding thermal receipt paper and eating food after using hand sanitizer results in high serum bioactive and urine total levels of bisphenol A (BPA). PLoS One. 2014. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25337790/

This page shares general educational information and is not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting a supplement, especially if you take medications, are pregnant or nursing, or have a health condition.