Jan 17 2025
A recent study has raised concerns about the presence of “forever chemicals” in mineral water across Europe. Researchers from the Pesticide Action Network Europe tested 19 mineral waters from various European countries and found that 10 contained trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a type of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS). These chemicals, which are highly persistent in the environment, were found at levels up to 32 times higher than the threshold that should trigger regulatory action by the European Union.
The study’s authors believe the contamination is linked to the use of pesticides containing TFA. “It’s concerning because we’re drinking TFA,” said Angeliki Lysimachou, one of the co-authors. The widespread presence of TFA in our water is more troubling than initially thought, with the chemical now being found in drinking water, rain, and even our bloodstreams.
The environmental impact of TFA is alarming. Scientists suggest it could potentially affect fertility and fetal development, adding to concerns over its persistence in nature. Recent studies, including one in Michigan, have found TFA in every rainwater sample tested, highlighting its global reach.
The challenge in addressing TFA contamination is that it’s difficult to remove from water. The process of reverse osmosis, often used to filter PFAS, is costly and impractical on a large scale. Environmental experts, like David Behringer, argue that the most effective solution is to stop TFA’s introduction in the first place.
In response to the growing concerns, countries like Denmark and Germany have already imposed limits on TFA in drinking water. Additionally, the European Commission has proposed a ban on certain pesticides, such as flufenacet and flutolanil, that break down into TFA.
