In June, Trillium reached out to companies operating stores and restaurants to better understand their practices regarding the use of bisphenol compounds—particularly bisphenol-S (BPS)—in thermal receipt paper. Retailers and restaurants are among the largest distributors of thermal receipts and thus play a critical role in reducing public exposure to harmful chemicals.
While bisphenol-A (BPA) has been largely phased out due to its endocrine-disrupting properties, BPS is now widely used as a substitute. However, a growing body of scientific evidence indicates that BPS may pose similar risks to human health. Studies have shown that BPS, like BPA, can be absorbed through the skin within seconds of contact with thermal paper and may disrupt hormonal systems, potentially contributing to reproductive harm, metabolic disorders, and certain cancers.
In response to these concerns regulatory action has been taken by California, Washington State, and the European Union, among others. But testing done in California by the Center for Environmental Health found BPS in many receipts even after the state’s ban went into force in January 2025.
Given these developments, Trillium asked companies to phase out BPS use, transition to safer alternatives, and put measures in place to protect workers and consumers from BPS’ harmful effects in the interim. They asked companies to join peers like TJ Maxx and Burlington Stores, that have already committed to phasing out phenol-based coatings in response to Trillium’s past shareholder engagement.
Learn more in Trillium’s Advocacy Impact Report