Re: Aspen substrate question
Personally, I would try a different option other than aspen. Aspen as far as I know is fine for a BP, but the reviews you read are correct as far as it not holding humidity well. Forest floor, ecoearth, and reptibark are all great products. I personally like forest floor a lot and have had a really easy time keeping my humidity where I want it in several different species' enclosures with it. I've also had no issues with any of my animals ingesting any of it, as the pieces are typically pretty large (in terms of substrate that is).
At the end of the day though, you have to find something that works for you and your animals. I prefer not to use Aspen, but if you live somewhere where the humidity is crazy high on it's own, that may be a better choice for you.
Re: Aspen substrate question
Both aspen products should be fine (equivalent), but honestly NOT recommended for BPs, because aspen doesn't hold humidity.
Don't use Carefresh for them either- it's hygroscopic, and by the way, Carefresh isn't labeled for snakes either, but I've used it for many (!) years.