Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a vast group of synthetic chemicals widespread in the environment. These compounds are highly resistant to degradation, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” Given their persistence, consumers are concerned about whether these contaminants have made their way into bottled water supplies. Research confirms that PFAS are present in various bottled water brands, making their detection a relevant public health topic.
Understanding PFAS: Definition and Health Implications
PFAS are defined by a strong bond between carbon and fluorine atoms, responsible for their stability and long lifespan. This unique chemical structure made them highly desirable in manufacturing, starting in the 1940s. They were incorporated into consumer products to provide resistance to heat, oil, stains, and water. Historical applications include non-stick coatings like Teflon, stain-resistant fabrics, and specialized firefighting foams.
The longevity of PFAS means they do not break down easily, leading to their global distribution in soil, air, and water. The primary concern stems from their ability to bioaccumulate, meaning they build up in the human body faster than the body can eliminate them. Exposure to elevated levels of certain PFAS compounds has been associated with health issues, including links to developmental delays in children, potential effects on the immune system, and increased risk for certain cancers and thyroid disease.
The Current State of PFAS Detection in Bottled Water
Independent testing has confirmed the presence of PFAS in bottled water products across various brands and types. A 2020 study by Consumer Reports found detectable levels in both carbonated and noncarbonated waters. Several sparkling water products exceeded a 1 part per trillion (ppt) threshold for total PFAS, a level some experts consider a safety benchmark.
Among noncarbonated brands tested, some samples had higher total PFAS concentrations, such as Deer Park Natural Spring Water (1.21 ppt) and Tourmaline Spring Sacred Living Water (4.64 ppt). The concentration of these chemicals shows significant variability between specific brands and water types, with purified waters tending to show lower levels than spring waters. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted its own targeted survey between 2023 and 2024, testing nearly 200 bottled water samples for 18 different types of PFAS. The FDA detected trace amounts in only ten samples, but none exceeded the new Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for public drinking water. These findings highlight that while contamination is not universal, the presence of PFAS in bottled water is a verifiable reality.
Pathways of Contamination in Bottled Water
PFAS enters bottled water primarily through two routes: the source water and the manufacturing process. The most common pathway involves source water contamination, particularly in spring or artesian waters drawn from groundwater aquifers. If the surrounding soil or aquifer is polluted from nearby industrial sites, landfills, or areas where firefighting foams were used, the water source itself will contain PFAS.
The chemical’s persistence allows it to leach into the groundwater, contaminating the source before bottling. A second, less frequent pathway is contamination during manufacturing or packaging. Trace amounts of PFAS can migrate into the water from the plastic bottle materials, or from processing equipment that may have used PFAS-containing coatings or sealants. This transfer means that even highly purified water can acquire minute levels of the chemicals before it reaches the consumer.
Regulatory Standards and Reducing Personal Exposure
The regulation of water quality is split between two federal agencies: the EPA oversees public tap water, while the FDA regulates bottled water as a packaged food product. When the EPA establishes a new Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for tap water, the FDA is required to review that standard and either adopt a corresponding regulation for bottled water or provide a rationale for why it is not necessary. This structure ensures bottled water standards are at least as protective of public health as tap water standards.
Currently, the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) requires its member companies to adhere to a voluntary standard stricter than many state-level regulations. This industry standard limits a single PFAS compound to 5 ppt and total PFAS to 10 ppt. For individuals looking to reduce personal exposure, filtration is the most effective solution.
Filtration Methods
Home water filtration systems certified to remove PFAS are highly effective. These systems typically use:
- Reverse osmosis (RO) technology.
- Granular activated carbon (GAC) technology.
Consumers should look for products with third-party certification that confirms the system’s ability to reduce PFAS concentrations. Choosing brands that voluntarily adhere to the IBWA standards or those that use reverse osmosis in their purification process can also help limit exposure.