Are you concerned about the presence of PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in bottled water? If so, you're not alone. Many people are worried about the potential health risks associated with these chemicals, which have been linked to cancer, thyroid disease, and other serious health issues. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ensure that the bottled water you drink is free from PFAS contamination. Perrier Natural Sparkling Mineral Water, La Croix Natural Sparkling Water, and Rogers are some of the most popular bottled water brands on the market.
However, a recent study by Consumer Reports found that seven of the twelve carbonated waters tested exceeded the threshold of 1 part per trillion of PFAS. Steven Chow, a postdoctoral researcher at Johns Hopkins University and co-author of the study, noted that his findings suggest that PFAS levels in bottled water are generally low. The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) responded to the study by stating that the information provided by Consumer Reports was “misleading and would unnecessarily frighten consumers”. In response, Tourmaline Spring said that the amount of PFAS in its bottled water was below the levels set by the IBWA and all states.
If you want to make sure that your bottled water is free from PFAS contamination, look for products that have been processed using treatments such as reverse osmosis. If your home isn't in a public water system or if you need more information, have your home water tested. Unfortunately, the Department of Defense has contaminated drinking water with a variety of toxic PFAS chemicals, not just PFOS and PFOA, which have been replaced by other toxic PFAS chemicals in firefighting foams. Additionally, many brands of bottled water have acidic pH levels and added fluoride, which can damage your teeth.
Hansen says that ultra-short-chain PFAS appear to be highly mobile, especially in water, persistent in the environment and toxic. Providing drinking water according to the EPA's 70 parts per trillion (ppt) recommendation still allows people to consume dangerous levels of toxins, considering that the country's top public health officials say that 1 PPT in drinking water is likely to be dangerous. So which bottled water does not contain PFAS? The answer is not straightforward as it depends on the brand and type of bottled water you choose. It is important to do your own research and be aware that there may be problems with bottled water. If you get your tap water through a public water system, you can receive an annual report detailing those results.
