PFAS in drinking water: What is it and how can you protect yourself?
What is PFAS?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These are synthetic substances with water-, grease- and dirt-repellent properties. They are therefore used in, amongst other things, non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing and fire-extinguishing foam.
As PFAS does not break down, it enters our bodies via drinking water or food. In the long term, this poses health risks. According to the RIVM, Dutch people are consuming too much PFAS. It is therefore essential to be mindful of how we use drinking water, for example by using a good PFAS water filter.
What does PFAS stand for?
PFAS is found in far more products than you might think. According to Arjen Wintersen, a PFAS researcher at the RIVM, PFAS spreads through the air, soil, food and water. Some of it enters the environment via industrial emissions. It then enters surface water via precipitation or seeps into groundwater through the soil.
"More than 10% of the monitoring stations in the Netherlands exceed the new EU standard for PFAS, particularly in the western Netherlands." – RIVM study
PFAS in food
- Fish and shellfish from polluted water
- Eggs from chickens that drink contaminated water
- Fruit and vegetables grown using contaminated water
- Food packaging such as pizza boxes and fast-food packaging
PFAS in household products
- Non-stick pans with a Teflon coating
- Water-repellent clothing and outdoor textiles
- Cosmetics such as foundation and mascara
- Carpets and furniture with a stain-resistant coating
- Dental floss made of silk
Why is PFAS dangerous to your health?
It is clear that PFAS is found in many products and is harmful to health. But what happens if you consume too much of it? The health risks are significant:
- Reduced effectiveness of the immune system
- Increased cholesterol
- Liver disorders
- Reduced fertility
- Increased risk of certain forms of cancer
- Disrupted hormonal balance
"A ban does not mean that PFAS will disappear immediately – these substances are extremely difficult to break down." – Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management
Prevent PFAS from getting into your drinking water
The best way to keep your drinking water free from PFAS is the installation of a professional water filtration system. An IX-PFAS filter removes up to 99,9% of these substances from your tap water.
These filters use various technologies that complement one another:
- Carbon filter – acts like a sponge that soaks up PFAS
- Reverse osmosis – forces water through an extremely fine membrane
- Ion exchange – captures harmful substances and replaces them with safe components
Here’s how to best protect yourself and your family from the health risks posed by PFAS.
Find out more about the benefits of a PFAS water filter.
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