Store receipts coated with toxic chemical

Instead of saying, "keep the change" you might want to start telling cashiers to keep the receipt--because it might be poisonous.

Researchers say they've found alarming levels of bisphenol A (BPA) in the printed receipts from some of our most common stores, including Wal-Mart, Whole Foods, Safeway, McDonald's, and KFC.

The study by the Environmental Working Group found that the dangerous estrogen-like chemical is present in the thermal paper commonly used by the store machines that churn out receipts.

Not only that, but the organization says you can easily give that BPA safe passage into your body if you eat or touch your mouth after handling one of these receipts.

And if that's not frightening enough, another study finds that even brief exposure to BPA-laced receipts can cause the chemical to sink deep into the skin. Once it reaches that point, researchers say, it can't even be washed off.

The study in Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry found that when a receipt containing BPA came into contact with dry fingers, 30 percent of the chemical remained and could not be washed away.

The study's co-author, chemist Koni Grob, told Science News that two hours later the BPA disappeared--possibly right into the bloodstream.

Wet fingers picked up 10 times as much BPA, but it didn't penetrate as deeply, according to the study.

BPA is one of the so-called "everywhere" chemicals because you'll find it... well, everywhere. It's often found in plastic bottles (including water bottles), the linings in metal cans and the lids of glass jars.

It's even in some dental fillings.

But this dangerous chemical shouldn't be everywhere. In fact, it shouldn't be anywhere--because studies have found that BPA can disrupt the endocrine system. It's been linked to diabetes, obesity, heart problems and early puberty.

Yet while the FDA admits it's concerned by BPA, it hasn't lifted a finger to get rid of it. They've even been sued in an attempt to force some action.

The sad truth is if you want to avoid BPA, you're going to have to do it on your own--because the feds are more interested in protecting a powerful industry than saving you.

As usual.

On a mission for your health,
Ed Martin
Editor, House Calls