Toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’ found in bottled and tap water worldwide, study reveals

Scientists have discovered toxic 'Forever Chemicals' in drinking water around the world, according to a new study published in ACS ES&T Water. Researchers detected perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which do not break down naturally, in both tap and bottled water samples from major cities in the UK and China. The study found 10 target PFAS, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), in over 99 percent of bottled water samples from 15 countries.

Notably, PFAS concentrations were higher in tap water from Shenzhen, China, compared to Birmingham, UK. Researchers collected 41 tap water samples from Birmingham, Worcester, Coventry, and Derby in the UK, as well as 14 samples from Shenzhen. Although the detected PFAS levels are not considered an immediate health risk, the study highlights the need for continuous monitoring and regulation to protect public health.

One of the key findings is that simple water treatment methods, such as boiling or using a jug filter with activated carbon, can reduce PFAS levels by 50 percent to 90 percent, depending on the treatment and the specific PFAS.

“Our findings highlight the widespread presence of PFAS in drinking water and the effectiveness of simple treatment methods to reduce their levels,” said Professor Stuart Harrad from the University of Birmingham. “Either using a simple water filtration jug or boiling the water removes a substantial proportion of these substances.” The University of Birmingham is ranked among the world’s top 100 institutions. It attracts researchers and students from over 150 countries, fostering international collaboration in groundbreaking research that addresses global challenges like environmental contamination and public health.

Why is PFAS harmful?

Reproductive effects include reduced fertility and increased risk of high blood pressure in pregnant women.
Developmental effects or delays in children, including low birth weight, accelerated puberty, bone variations, or behavioural changes.
Increased risk of some cancers, including prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers.
Reduced ability of the body’s immune system to fight infections, including reduced vaccine response.
Interference with the body’s natural hormones.
Increased cholesterol levels and/or risk of obesity.

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Moreover, bottled water tested from various countries showed varying levels of PFAS, with natural mineral water often containing higher concentrations than purified water. However, the concentrations generally remained below health advisory limits set by regulatory agencies. Researchers found no significant difference in PFAS levels between glass and plastic bottles, nor between still and sparkling water.

The research also showed that PFOS concentrations in Shenzhen tap water exceeded the newly established maximum contaminant level of 4 ng/L set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in 2024.

Professor Yi Zheng from Southern University of Science and Technology emphasised the importance of raising awareness. “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,” Yi Zheng stated.

Need for Further Research on Exposure and Solutions

PFAS are widely used in products such as fire-fighting foams, waterproof clothing, and personal care items due to their water and stain repellent properties. Although some PFAS have been banned, many remain in use, and their full health effects are still under investigation. PFAS exposure has been linked to health issues such as lowered immune response to vaccines, impaired liver function, decreased birth weight, and increased risk of certain cancers.

This study provides vital data on PFAS contamination and underscores the need for further research to explore how lifestyle and socio-economic factors may influence exposure to these chemicals. It also offers practical solutions for consumers looking to reduce their exposure through household water treatment methods.

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