Forever Chemicals estimated to be in 45% of the nation’s tap water!

What Are PFOA & PFOS – The "Forever Chemicals"

PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (Perfluorooctane sulfonate) are part of a larger group of synthetic chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), which are fluorinated organic compounds. These substances are nicknamed "forever chemicals" due to their extreme persistence in the environment and the human body — they don’t break down easily and can accumulate over time.

Widespread Use in Consumer Products

PFOA and PFOS have been extensively manufactured and used in a wide variety of consumer goods, including:

• Water-repellent clothing and outdoor gear
• Stain-resistant carpets and upholstery
• Non-stick cookware (like Teflon)
• Grease-proof food packaging
• Firefighting foams used at airfields and industrial sites

Due to their widespread usage, nearly everyone has been exposed to these chemicals at some level.

Phase-Out and Continued Exposure

In the U.S., PFOS was voluntarily phased out between 2000–2002. By 2006, major global manufacturers agreed to phase out PFOA and similar chemicals. Despite these efforts, some ongoing uses persist, and exposure can still occur — especially in communities near contaminated water sources.

While general population exposure often comes from consumer products or contaminated food, a more serious concern is water contamination. Communities near industrial plants, airports, or firefighting training facilities are especially at risk.

EPA & USGS: Health Risks and Water Safety

According to EPA.gov, health advisories have been established for PFOA and PFOS based on the most recent peer-reviewed science. These advisories help state, tribal, and local officials take steps to reduce exposure through drinking water. The EPA continues to study these substances and update its recommendations as new evidence emerges.

USGS.gov reports that PFAS are found in both regulated public-supply water and unregulated private wells. A nationwide study between 2016 and 2021 tested 716 water samples and found:

• PFAS detected in approx. 45% of U.S. drinking water samples
• Seventeen types of PFAS detected, with PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, and PFBS being the most common
• Detected PFAS concentrations ranged from 0.348 to 346 ng/L
• Private wells and public supply water had similar median PFAS levels

The study emphasized a growing concern over unmonitored private wells, where residents may not be aware of contamination risks. While most individual PFAS appeared in low concentrations, cumulative exposure — especially to PFOA and PFOS — remains a significant public health concern.

Why Are PFOA & PFOS Harmful?

Both PFOA and PFOS have been linked to a variety of serious health conditions, including:

• Kidney and testicular cancer
• Liver damage
• Thyroid disease
• Immune system dysfunction
• High cholesterol
• Low birth weight and developmental effects in infants

How Can You Protect Yourself?

One of the most effective ways to reduce PFAS exposure — especially through drinking water — is by using an advanced water filtration system. Look for filters that are NSF-certified for PFAS reduction or use activated carbon, reverse osmosis, or ion exchange technology.

Final Thoughts: Awareness = Protection

While regulatory agencies like the EPA are working to reduce PFAS contamination, awareness at the consumer level is essential. By understanding what PFOA and PFOS are, where they come from, and how to limit exposure, you can take proactive steps to protect your health and your family’s well-being.

Don’t wait for contamination to hit home — invest in clean, filtered water today and stay informed about the substances flowing from your tap.