Researchers recently found 10 target PFAS chemicals in tap and bottled water for sale in major cities in the UK and China. In 99% of the samples sourced from 15 countries around the world, PFOA and PFOS were detected.
The team noted significant differences in PFAS concentrations between water samples from Birmingham, UK, and Shenzhen, China, in which Chinese tap water was found to have higher PFAS concentrations.
In their research, published in CS ES&T Water, the team demonstrated that boiling or activated carbon filtration can substantially reduce PFAS concentrations in the water.
"Our findings highlight the widespread presence of PFAS in drinking water and the effectiveness of simple treatment methods to reduce their levels. Either using a simple water filtration jug or boiling the water removes a substantial proportion of these substances," said Professor Stuart Harrad, from the University of Birmingham.
"While current PFAS levels in most water samples are not a major health concern, ongoing monitoring and regulation are crucial to protect public health. We provide valuable data on the presence of PFAS in drinking water alongside practical solutions to mitigate consumer exposure via drinking water. This is a significant step towards ensuring safer drinking water for communities worldwide."
While the researchers did note an increase in PFAS in natural mineral water when compared to purified water, they did not find a significant difference in PFAS concentrations between glass and plastic packaging or still and sparkling bottled water.
"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," Added Professor Yi Zheng, from the Southern University of Science and Technology.
"Our findings also suggest that the potential health risks of PFAS in drinking water may be influenced by lifestyle and economic conditions, highlighting the need for future research to further explore these factors from a socio-economic perspective."