They are found everywhere.
A recent study has raised alarms about the presence of PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” in drinking water globally, affecting both tap and bottled water supplies. Researchers discovered ten specific types of PFAS in samples collected from 15 countries, revealing that these chemicals are pervasive in our water sources. Notably, PFOA and PFOS were found in over 99% of the bottled water samples analyzed.
The study also highlighted effective methods for reducing PFAS levels in drinking water. Boiling water or using a carbon filter can lower the concentration of these harmful substances by 50% to 90%. Stuart Harrad, a professor of environmental chemistry at the University of Birmingham, emphasized the significance of these findings, stating that simple treatments like using a water filtration jug or boiling water can effectively diminish the presence of PFAS.
In their investigation, researchers examined 112 bottled water samples from stores and online platforms in the U.K. and China, representing 87 different brands sourced from various countries across Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania. They found that 63% of the bottled waters tested contained PFAS, with no notable differences in contamination levels between glass and plastic bottles or between still and sparkling water.
The study also included an analysis of 41 tap water samples from the U.K. and China, revealing that tap water in China generally had higher PFAS concentrations compared to its British counterpart. PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals that have been widely used in products since the 1940s, including nonstick cookware, food packaging, and firefighting foams. Due to their strong carbon-fluorine bonds, they are challenging to break down or remove from the environment.
Health concerns associated with PFAS exposure include weakened immune responses, liver dysfunction, reduced birth weight, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Yi Zheng, an associate dean of environmental science and engineering at the Southern University of Science and Technology in China, pointed out that raising awareness about PFAS contamination in drinking water can empower consumers to make informed decisions and encourage the adoption of purification methods.
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