BPA-Free Thermal Paper: A Safer, Smarter Choice for Your Business
Discover the benefits of switching to BPA-free thermal paper for your business. Learn about health, safety, environmental impacts, and how McDermid Paper Converters delivers high-quality, eco-friendly thermal solutions.
Introduction
Thermal paper is a staple in many industries—from retail and hospitality to banking and logistics. Whether it's printing receipts, shipping labels, or tickets, businesses rely on thermal paper every day. But with increasing concerns about chemicals in everyday materials, one topic has come to the forefront: BPA.
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical compound historically used in thermal paper coatings. While BPA improves heat sensitivity for clear, sharp prints, it has raised significant health and environmental concerns. Enter BPA-free thermal paper—an increasingly popular alternative that’s safer for both people and the planet.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what BPA-free thermal paper is, why it's important, and how making the switch can benefit your business. If you're looking to upgrade your operations with more responsible, and high-quality materials.
What Is BPA and Why Was It Used in Thermal Paper?
BPA is an industrial chemical that’s been used for decades in the production of certain plastics and resins. In thermal paper, BPA acts as a developer that reacts with the dye in the heat-sensitive coating to produce text and images when passed through a thermal printer.
Its use made thermal printing affordable and efficient—but it came at a cost. BPA can leach from paper onto skin, and repeated exposure has been linked to hormonal disruptions and other health risks. As consumer awareness and scientific studies highlighted these risks, regulatory agencies and businesses began to reconsider BPA’s widespread use.
What Is BPA-Free Thermal Paper?
BPA-free thermal paper is exactly what it sounds like—thermal paper that does not contain Bisphenol A in its chemical coating. Instead, manufacturers use safer alternatives such as:
- BPS (Bisphenol S): A close chemical cousin to BPA, though now also facing scrutiny.
- Phenol-free developers: Like Pergafast® and urea-based coatings, which are regarded as safer for health and the environment.
The shift to BPA-free thermal paper doesn’t mean compromising on performance. Modern BPA-free options deliver the same sharp, clear print quality and durability, making them a viable substitute in any industry where thermal paper is used.
Health and Safety Benefits of BPA-Free Thermal Paper
Using BPA-free thermal paper helps protect both your employees and your customers from unnecessary exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. Studies have shown that BPA can be absorbed through skin contact, especially among people who frequently handle thermal receipts, such as cashiers and delivery drivers.
By switching to BPA-free paper, your business demonstrates a proactive stance on health and safety, which is increasingly valued in today’s market. This can lead to:
- Improved employee well-being
- Increased customer trust
- Reduced liability and compliance risks
In fact, many governments and organizations now require or strongly encourage the use of BPA-free materials in specific applications.
Environmental Impact
BPA can also have a detrimental effect on the environment. When thermal paper containing BPA is discarded, the chemical can leach into soil and water systems, disrupting wildlife and contributing to pollution.
By choosing BPA-free thermal paper, you're making a more sustainable choice. Many BPA-free papers are also more easily recyclable, allowing your business to reduce its environmental footprint.
Some BPA-free thermal papers are even FSC® certified, which means the paper comes from responsibly managed forests. This adds another layer of environmental responsibility to your supply chain.
Industries That Benefit Most from BPA-Free Thermal Paper
BPA-free thermal paper is ideal for any industry where printed receipts, labels, or documentation are routinely handled. Some of the most relevant sectors include:
Retail
From POS receipts to return slips, retail staff and customers come into frequent contact with thermal paper. Switching to BPA-free options can support safer shopping environments.
Restaurants and Hospitality
Order tickets, customer receipts, and kitchen labels are just a few examples of how thermal paper is used in food service. BPA-free paper can help reduce the risk of chemical exposure around food and beverage operations.
Banking and Financial Services
Receipts for ATMs, deposits, and transactions often end up being handled and stored. BPA-free paper offers safer document retention and customer interaction.
Transportation and Logistics
Shipping labels, cargo documents, and routing slips are regularly handled in logistics. BPA-free solutions help protect handlers while supporting eco-conscious supply chains.
Healthcare
Prescription labels, appointment reminders, and wristbands are printed on thermal paper. BPA-free options are especially important in this health-focused industry.
Key Features of BPA-Free Thermal Paper
When sourcing BPA-free thermal paper, it's important to ensure the paper still meets performance expectations. Here are a few features to look for:
- Excellent image clarity
- Fade resistance
- Durability under heat and moisture
- Printer compatibility
- Eco-certifications (FSC®, phenol-free, etc.)
At McDermid Paper Converters, we ensure that all our BPA-free thermal paper products meet stringent quality standards, so you never have to sacrifice performance for safety.
Why Switch to BPA-Free Thermal Paper Now?
With increasing public awareness, regulatory attention, and a growing demand for safer materials, switching to BPA-free thermal paper is no longer just a nice-to-have—it’s becoming a business imperative.
Here are several reasons why now is the right time:
- Stay ahead of regulations: Be proactive before mandates are introduced.
- Support sustainability goals: Reduce chemical pollution and support recyclability.
- Enhance brand image: Show customers and employees that you care about their health.
- Avoid printer issues: Today’s BPA-free thermal papers are fully compatible with modern thermal printers.
Why Choose McDermid Paper Converters for BPA-Free Thermal Paper?
At McDermid Paper Converters, we offer premium BPA-free thermal paper rolls tailored to a wide range of industries. With decades of converting expertise, advanced slitting and rewinding capabilities, and a commitment to quality, we ensure every roll you receive meets the highest standards.
What you get when you partner with McDermid:
- Reliable BPA-free products in multiple sizes
- Custom solutions for thermal paper roll widths, diameters, and core sizes
- Expert advice from a team that understands your industry’s needs
We believe safety, performance, and sustainability can go hand-in-hand—and we’re here to help you make that transition effortlessly.
Make the Safe Switch Today
Choosing BPA-free thermal paper is a smart, forward-thinking decision that benefits your business, your customers, and the planet. As more companies take steps toward safer, more responsible operations, staying ahead of the curve with BPA-free solutions can set you apart.
Ready to make the switch? Contact McDermid Paper Converters today to learn more about our BPA-free thermal paper options.
