PFAS problem: Forever chemicals found in 99% of bottled water samples worldwide

By Study Finds

The purity of our drinking water is being challenged by the presence of synthetic “forever chemicals,” according to a new international study. Researchers have detected per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water samples from taps and bottles across different countries, raising concerns about potential health risks associated with long-term exposure.

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used in various industrial applications and consumer products due to their water and stain-repellent properties. Their persistence in the environment and potential adverse health effects have made them a subject of increasing scientific and regulatory scrutiny.

The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Birmingham, Southern University of Science and Technology, and Hainan University, analyzed 112 glass and plastic bottled water samples (87 brands) from 15 countries, and 55 tap water samples from the UK and China. Their findings, published in the journal ACS ES&T Water, paint a picture of widespread contamination and highlight the need for increased monitoring and regulation of these chemicals.

The researchers focused on ten specific PFAS compounds, finding that two of the most well-known PFAS – perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) – were detected in over 99% of bottled water samples.

One of the most striking findings was the difference in the levels of forever chemicals between tap water in the UK and China. Chinese tap water contained significantly higher concentrations of these chemicals, with some samples exceeding the latest health guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This disparity may be partly due to differences in environmental regulations and industrial practices between the two countries.

The researchers also investigated bottled water from 15 different countries, discovering that even this supposedly “pure” source of hydration is not immune to PFAS contamination. Natural mineral water sourced from groundwater typically contained higher concentrations of forever chemicals compared to purified water. However, the study found no significant differences in PFAS levels between glass and plastic bottles or between still and sparkling water.

The finding debunks the common perception that “natural” always equates to “cleaner” or “safer” when it comes to drinking water.

The researchers didn’t stop at simply measuring forever chemical levels; they also explored potential methods for reducing exposure to these chemicals. Their experiments showed that common household water treatment methods, such as boiling and activated carbon filtration, can significantly reduce PFAS concentrations in drinking water. This information provides a practical approach for concerned individuals to minimize their exposure to these persistent pollutants.

“Our findings highlight the widespread presence of PFAS in drinking water and the effectiveness of simple treatment methods to reduce their levels,” says co-author Professor Stuart Harrad from the University of Birmingham, in a statement. “Either using a simple water filtration jug or boiling the water removes a substantial proportion of these substances.”

The study’s results underscore the need for ongoing monitoring and regulation of forever chemicals in drinking water sources. “Increased awareness about the presence of PFAS in both tap and bottled water can lead to more informed choices by consumers, encouraging the use of water purification methods,” says Professor Yi Zheng from Southern University of Science and Technology.

The discovery of widespread PFAS contamination in drinking water sources worldwide will undoubtedly spark further research, policy debates, and technological innovations. Armed with this knowledge, we are better equipped to face the challenge of ensuring clean, safe drinking water for generations to come.

Paper Summary

Methodology

The researchers collected and analyzed 112 bottled water samples from 15 countries and 55 tap water samples from the UK and China. The countries in the study include They used advanced laboratory techniques, including liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, to measure the concentrations of ten specific PFAS compounds in these samples. The study also examined the effects of different water treatment methods on PFAS levels by conducting experiments with spiked water samples.

Results

The study found that PFAS were detected in nearly all water samples tested. Tap water in China had significantly higher PFAS concentrations compared to UK tap water. Bottled water generally contained lower PFAS levels than tap water, but there were variations based on water source and packaging. Natural mineral water tended to have higher PFAS levels than purified water. Boiling and activated carbon filtration were found to be effective in reducing PFAS concentrations in water.

Limitations

The study focused on a specific set of PFAS compounds and may not represent the full range of these chemicals present in drinking water. The sample size, while substantial, was limited to certain regions and may not be fully representative of global drinking water quality. The long-term health effects of low-level PFAS exposure are still not fully understood, making it difficult to assess the true risk posed by the observed concentrations.

Discussion and Takeaways

The widespread presence of PFAS in drinking water sources globally highlights the need for increased monitoring and regulation of these chemicals. The study suggests that current water treatment practices may not be sufficient to remove PFAS completely, and new technologies may be needed. The findings also emphasize the importance of source water protection and reducing the use of PFAS in industrial and consumer products. The effectiveness of household water treatment methods in reducing PFAS levels provides a practical solution for individuals concerned about their exposure.

Funding and Disclosures

The study was supported by various funding sources, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation, and the Shenzhen Science and Technology Innovation Commission. The researchers declared no competing financial interests, ensuring the integrity and independence of their findings.

Source: Study Finds

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