What Is Bisphenol S (BPS) & Is It Safe?

 

 

Bisphenol S (BPS), related to its chemical cousin Bisphenol A (BPA), is an organic compound used to make hard plastic and synthetic fibers. It is commonly used as a replacement for BPA in some types of paper receipts, can be used to lengthen color life in fabrics, and is a food packaging preservative. 

 

 

What Products Have Bisphenol S In Them?

Bisphenol S can be found in:

  • Thermal paper cash receipts

  • Plastics

  • Indoor dust

  • Linings of beverage and food cans 

  • Medical devices

Is Bisphenol S Safe?

Bisphenol S is often used as a replacement for Bisphenol A. However, bisphenol S is not necessarily safer to use than Bisphenol A. Studies comparing the risk of BPS vs. BPA in thermal paper receipts yielded similar exposure risks [1] and Million Marker lists them both as chemicals to avoid.  

Health Impacts of Bisphenol S Products

Bisphenol S is an endocrine disruptor and has comparable health risks to that of Bisphenol A. BPS has been shown to increase the expression of breast cancer carcinogens and the proliferation of positive breast cancer cells [2].

Additionally, BPS exposure has been linked to impaired neural function. High levels have been found to be significantly correlated with insulin resistance, albuminuria, and irregular vascular function in children [3]. Pregnant women or women looking to become pregnant should reduce their exposure to Bisphenol S because it has been shown to reduce egg viability and may reduce fertility outcomes. 

Recommended Alternatives to Bisphenol S

Although BPS has been posed as a safer alternative to BPA, it still has health risks associated with its use. Limit your Bisphenol S exposure by: 

  • Avoiding hard plastics, especially with food/drink storage and packaging. “BPA-free” plastic often contains other bisphenols like BPS.

  • Not touching or using paper receipts and opting for no receipt or only a digital copy.

  • Using products made of stainless steel, glass, or wood.

  • You can find our recommended personal care products on our Approved Products list!

Purchase our test kit, where you can learn your exposure to BPS, BPA, and other harmful chemicals.

Sources

[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31111188/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071457/#B39-nutrients-12-00532
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28099427/