The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued new regulations limiting six perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in public water systems. While these guidelines represent a significant step toward reducing exposure, they don’t cover every water source in the US, and they won’t fully take effect for several years. In the meantime, millions of Americans remain at risk of exposure to these chemicals, which have been linked to severe health concerns, including cancer, fertility problems, and thyroid disease.
Understanding PFAS and Their Impact
PFAS have been used since the 1950s to make various consumer products more durable, resistant to stains, and able to withstand heat. These “forever chemicals” are so named because they persist in the environment and the human body for decades without breaking down. The 2022 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report highlighted the long-term presence of PFAS in the body. As Jane Hoppin from North Carolina State University explains, “Even with no additional exposure, it would take 25 years for all PFAS to leave your body.”
Health Risks of PFAS
Studies have linked exposure to PFAS to multiple health issues, including:
- Cancer
- Fertility complications
- High cholesterol
- Hormonal disruption
- Thyroid disease
- Liver damage
- Obesity
Given their widespread use and persistence in both the environment and human bodies, experts stress the importance of limiting exposure as much as possible.
The New Regulations and What They Miss
By the EPA’s new regulations, water utilities will be required to start testing for PFAS within three years if they serve at least 15 service connections or 25 people. They must notify the public of any PFAS levels above the new standards, which are set at 4 parts per trillion for two of the most harmful chemicals—PFOA and PFOS. To put this into context, that’s equivalent to just 7 square feet out of the 7 trillion square feet in Texas.
In addition, the EPA has set limits for other PFAS chemicals, such as PFNA and GenX, capping these at 10 parts per trillion.
However, the regulations only apply to public water systems, leaving out private wells, which provide drinking water to over 43 million Americans. The rules also don’t cover PFAS emissions from manufacturing facilities, which remain a major source of pollution. Melanie Benesh of the Environmental Working Group argues, “The burden should not entirely be placed on drinking water utilities… we need more limits on the amount of PFAS that can be released into the air and water.”
Steps to Test Your Water for PFAS
While these federal regulations evolve, there are immediate steps individuals can take to safeguard their water. If you rely on a public water system, you can start by checking online resources like the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) national tap water database. This tool allows you to search by zip code to see levels of PFAS and other chemicals detected in your area.
If you use well water, it’s wise to invest in a water test from a certified lab, especially since the EPA’s new regulations don’t cover private wells. It’s essential to choose a testing method that can detect PFAS levels as low as four parts per trillion, Andrews from EWG notes. Fortunately, many labs certified to test for PFAS are available across the country.
Filtering PFAS from Your Water
If high PFAS levels are found in your drinking water, installing an appropriate water filter can help. Andrews suggests reverse osmosis filters, which are highly effective but can cost around $200. These systems use both carbon filters and reverse osmosis membranes to remove a range of contaminants, including dissolved solids and PFAS.
However, these filters require regular maintenance. “If you don’t change that filter, and it becomes saturated, the levels of PFAS in the filtered water can actually be above the levels in the tap water,” Andrews warns. Carbon filters typically need to be replaced every six months, while reverse osmosis filters last about five years.
While reverse osmosis systems are often recommended, granular activated carbon filters, which are more common and less expensive, can also help. However, they may not be as effective or consistent in removing PFAS.
For those who cannot install a permanent system, countertop filters offer a portable solution. Although these filters process smaller amounts of water, they can still significantly reduce PFAS and other contaminants. EWG has conducted tests on countertop filtering systems and posted results online for consumers to compare.
PFAS Exposure Beyond Water: Food and Household Products
Drinking water isn’t the only source of PFAS exposure. These chemicals are also found in many everyday items, including nonstick cookware, food packaging, and even cosmetics.
In February 2024, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it would ban certain PFAS chemicals used in grease-proof food packaging. However, with nearly 15,000 types of PFAS in use today, avoiding them entirely is challenging. Carpets, furniture, clothing, and various electronic devices often contain PFAS, making them difficult to escape.
Fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and pizza boxes are all major sources of dietary exposure to PFAS. The FDA’s recent steps toward banning certain chemicals mark progress, but the widespread use of these substances means they will likely remain a part of daily life for the foreseeable future.
Reducing PFAS Exposure in Your Home
The PFAS-REACH project, funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, recommends practical ways to limit PFAS exposure in everyday life. Here are some tips to help you avoid these chemicals:
- Avoid stain-resistant carpets and upholstery
Stain resistance usually comes from PFAS coatings, so opting for untreated fabrics is a safer choice. - Skip nonstick cookware
Instead of nonstick pots and pans, use alternatives like cast iron, stainless steel, or glass cookware, which don’t contain PFAS. - Be wary of food packaging
Whenever possible, avoid takeout containers and microwave popcorn bags. Cooking at home using fresh ingredients will reduce dietary exposure. - Check product labels
When purchasing household goods, avoid items listing “fluoro” ingredients such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a common PFAS compound. - Use safer dental floss
Some dental floss is coated with PFAS. Choose products that are either uncoated or use natural wax instead of PFAS-based coatings.
High-Risk Populations
Certain groups are more vulnerable to PFAS exposure. According to the 2022 National Academies report, people at high risk include:
- Pregnant women and developing fetuses
- Young children
- Elderly individuals
- Firefighters
Firefighting foams often contain PFAS. - People working in or living near manufacturing plants
Those near factories, airports, military bases, or wastewater treatment facilities face higher exposure risks due to contamination in local water sources.
As the EPA’s regulations take time to roll out, individuals must take proactive steps to reduce their PFAS exposure. Whether by testing water, using effective filters, or avoiding products laden with these chemicals, it’s possible to minimize the health risks associated with these “forever chemicals.” With PFAS present in so many everyday items, making small, informed changes can significantly reduce your exposure.
The Best Option: Filtration
A reverse osmosis filtration system is one of the most effective ways to limit PFAS exposure from drinking water. This method combines carbon filters and reverse osmosis membranes to remove chemicals and other contaminants. It’s vital to maintain these systems by regularly replacing filters to ensure continued protection.
In addition to reverse osmosis systems, whole-home water conditioners can improve overall water quality. These systems filter water before it reaches your taps, reducing the presence of harmful substances like PFAS and disinfectants. While more expensive, these conditioners provide peace of mind by treating the water throughout your home.
Source: CNN