What is PFAS in drinking water?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
PFAS are man-made chemicals built to resist heat, oil, and water, and they break down so slowly they are called forever chemicals. The EPA says they are now found in the blood of people and animals worldwide and in water, air, fish, and soil. Health research is still developing, with certain exposures linked to effects like increased cholesterol and immune and developmental impacts. Practical steps: check your supplier's annual report for PFAS results, and use a certified reverse osmosis or carbon filter at the drinking tap if levels concern you. Bottled water is not automatically PFAS-free.
What to do
- Check your water supplier's annual report for PFAS testing.
- Use a certified filter (reverse osmosis or specific carbon) if levels concern you.
- Do not assume bottled water is cleaner; it may not be PFAS-tested.
- Follow utility notices; regulators are tightening PFAS limits.
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