A new study has uncovered the presence of “forever chemicals” known as PFAS (perfluoroalkyl substances) in both bottled and tap water from several countries.
These chemicals, which do not break down naturally, were detected in water sources from cities in the UK, China, and other countries.
The research, conducted by scientists from the University of Birmingham and Southern University of Science and Technology, highlights the need for better regulation and solutions to reduce PFAS exposure through drinking water.
PFAS are widely used in many industries due to their water and stain-resistant properties.
They can be found in items like firefighting foam, waterproof clothing, and even school uniforms.
Despite some being banned, many PFAS chemicals are still in use, and their harmful effects are not fully understood.
Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS can lead to health problems such as weakened immune responses, liver issues, low birth weight, and even an increased risk of cancer.
In this new study, scientists tested water samples from major cities, including Birmingham in the UK and Shenzhen in China, to measure PFAS levels.
They also tested bottled water from 15 countries around the world.
Their results revealed that over 99% of bottled water samples contained PFAS, with some countries showing higher concentrations than others.
Surprisingly, the research found significant differences in PFAS levels between tap water in Birmingham and Shenzhen, with Chinese tap water showing higher concentrations.
However, the study offers hope by showing that simple water treatment methods, such as boiling water or using activated carbon filters (commonly found in water filter jugs), can reduce PFAS levels in drinking water by 50% to 90%, depending on the treatment method and the type of PFAS.
Professor Stuart Harrad from the University of Birmingham, a co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of this discovery.
He said, “Our findings highlight the widespread presence of PFAS in drinking water and the effectiveness of simple treatment methods to reduce their levels.
While current PFAS levels in most water samples are not a major health concern, ongoing monitoring and regulation are crucial to protect public health.”
The study also revealed that bottled water showed varying levels of PFAS contamination, with natural mineral water containing more PFAS than purified water.
However, the overall levels in bottled water were generally below health advisory limits set by regulatory agencies. The research team also found no significant difference in PFAS concentrations between plastic and glass bottles or between still and sparkling water.
In particular, tap water samples from Shenzhen, China, showed higher concentrations of one type of PFAS—PFOS—exceeding the maximum contaminant level set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in 2024. This highlights the need for stronger regulations and efforts to monitor PFAS levels in water sources worldwide.
The researchers tested 112 bottled water samples from various countries and 41 tap water samples from homes in the UK and China.
Their findings offer valuable data on PFAS contamination, along with practical solutions for reducing exposure.
Co-author Professor Yi Zheng from Southern University of Science and Technology in China believes that raising awareness of PFAS in drinking water can help consumers make more informed choices about water purification methods.
“By understanding the presence of PFAS in water, people can take steps to reduce their exposure,” said Professor Zheng. He also noted that the potential health risks of PFAS in drinking water could be influenced by lifestyle and economic factors, which future research should explore.
Overall, while PFAS contamination in drinking water is a serious issue, the study shows that there are simple ways to reduce these chemicals in the water we drink. Ongoing research, regulation, and consumer awareness will be essential for ensuring safer water for people around the world.
