Can bisphenol S from 'BPA-free' products suppress your metabolism and cause weight gain?
Some Concern
What's actually in it
Bisphenol S (BPS) replaced BPA in products labeled "BPA-free." It's in receipt paper, food can linings, plastic containers, and water bottles. Like BPA, BPS acts as an endocrine disruptor. It can interfere with hormones that control fat storage and energy burning.
What the research says
A 2026 study in Environ Pollut found that BPS exposure suppresses white fat beiging, a process where the body converts regular fat cells into calorie-burning "beige" fat cells. BPS blocked this process by interfering with an enzyme called CYP2E1.
When your body can't convert white fat to beige fat efficiently, you store more fat and burn fewer calories. Over time, this can contribute to weight gain and obesity. BPS may be acting as an "obesogen," a chemical that promotes fat accumulation.
Don't assume "BPA-free" means safe. Choose glass or stainless steel containers for food and beverages. Decline paper receipts at stores, since thermal paper is a major source of BPS. Eat fewer canned foods, as many can linings now use BPS.
The research at a glance
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