Are Paper Receipts Safe to Use?

Receipts are your proof of purchase. They are also effective for handling returns. Plus, they’re a proven way to curb retail theft. 

Recent reporting on paper receipts questions whether paper receipts are safe to use. We answer a few common questions to set the record straight.

Are Paper Receipts Safe to Use and Handle?

Yes. The paper industry is committed to product safety and innovation. This includes paper receipt options that do not contain Bisphenol A, commonly known as BPA. Continuous improvements in the manufacturing process make paper receipts the safe choice at checkout.

U.S. paper receipt producers have:

• Voluntarily committed to products that are safe for people and the environment.
• Are advancing innovative chemistries that align with customer preferences.

What Type of Paper Are Receipts Made From?

Paper receipts are thermal papers. This innovative product has been around since the 1960s and was engineered to print images using heat rather than inks or toner.

Do Paper Receipts Contain BPA?

No. BPA is not used in paper receipts by U.S. producers. In fact, these paper receipt manufacturers stopped using BPA as a chemical coating over a decade ago.

What Is the Industry Doing About Paper Receipt Concerns?

U.S. paper manufacturers have begun transitioning to new technologies, including new thermal coating chemistries. Phenol-free thermal receipt papers are readily available in the marketplace today.

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recyclable resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative —Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately 5% of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures about $350 billion in products annually and employs about 925,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of about $65 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 43 states. Visit AF&PA online at afandpa.org or follow us on Twitter @ForestandPaper.