PFAS in bottled water

Bottled water companies are facing a new crisis: PFAS in bottled water.

What is PFAS? It stands for poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances, which are chemicals that have been used since the 1940s to make products stain-resistant, waterproof, or nonstick.

They’re found not only in carpets but also in clothing, furniture, takeout containers, and food packaging. In recent years it has come to light that PFAS can cause cancer and disrupt hormones over time – even at low levels of exposure. And now they’ve been detected in many popular brands of bottled water from across the country.

You might think that bottled water is safer than tap water, but recent studies have found that some brands of bottled water contain PFAS above safe levels.

What is PFAS and why should I worry?

PFAS is an acronym for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). It includes a large group of man-made chemicals such as PFOA, PFOS, and GenX. In total, there are more than 4,000 individual molecules in this group.

PFAS have been the most extensively produced man-made chemicals in history, with production spanning from World War II through today. They are used for a variety of applications including surfactants (to emulsify chemical mixtures), flame retardants (to protect your family from fires), waterproofing agents (to keep your clothes clean and dry) or even making certain plastics flexible!

Studies show that certain PFAS compounds can affect your health in many ways. Risks include developmental problems in fetuses and infants, thyroid issues, liver damage kidneys hormonal problems as well immune system malfunctions. Some studies also suggest the possibility for increased cancer risk among people who are exposed to higher concentrations.

PFAS in bottled water…

Americans drink more bottled water than any other product. In the US, it is a $19.4 billion dollar business that delivers billions of gallons to consumers every year.

Consumer Reports recently tested 47 bottled water brands to measure PFAS concentrations. Their results are startling.

Recent study for PFAS in bottled water …

Consumer Reports tested both carbonated and non-carbonated water. They tested a lot of brands in both categories as shown here:

• Carbonated water – 12 brands tested
• Non-carbonated water – 35 brands tested

Of all 12 carbonated brands tested, 9 contained PFAS at risk levels.

The carbonated water bottlers whose products had elevated PFAS concentrations are:

• Perrier
• La Croix
• Canada Dry
• Poland Spring
• Bubly
• Polar
• Topo Chico
• Deer Park
• Tourmaline Spring

Please use caution and care when choosing to drink bottled water!