‘Forever Chemicals’ Aren’t Here to Stay – Discover Brands Offering Zero PFAs

In recent years, growing concerns over ‘forever chemicals,’ scientifically known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs), have sparked public interest in the safety of various consumer products, including bottled water. PFAs are known for their persistence in the environment, leading to widespread contamination of water sources and potential risks to human health. Studies have linked PFAs exposure to serious health issues, raising valid concerns about their presence in drinking water.

Consumer Reports conducted an extensive study on bottled water, uncovering significantly higher levels of PFAs in sparkling water compared to still water. This article delves into the issue of PFAs in bottled water, explores the findings of the Consumer Reports study, and highlights brands that offer PFAs-free products, ensuring consumer safety.

The Concerns Surrounding PFAs

PFAs are a group of synthetic chemicals commonly used in industrial and consumer products for their water- and grease-resistant properties. Unfortunately, their persistent nature has resulted in widespread contamination of water sources, raising concerns about their long-term impact on both human health and the environment.

Exposure to PFAs has been linked to severe health problems, including cancer, thyroid disease, and hormone disruption, making their presence in drinking water a serious public health concern.

Consumer Reports Study on PFAs in Bottled Water

Consumer Reports’ study on bottled water revealed that sparkling water contained significantly higher levels of PFAs compared to still water. This discovery has prompted widespread concern, as many consumers rely on bottled water, including sparkling water, for their hydration needs.

Brands Offering Zero PFAs

Amid the growing concerns about PFAs, several bottled water brands have taken proactive measures to prioritise consumer safety and transparency. These brands have commissioned third-party testing to verify the absence of PFAs in their products, ensuring they meet the highest safety standards.

1.    Just Water

JUST Water leads the way in safety and transparency by offering all-natural spring water with non-detected (zero) levels of PFAs. The brand’s commitment to consumer safety goes beyond just PFAs testing. JUST Water adopts sustainable and responsible packaging practices, using paper-based cartons made from renewable resources. The brand also sources its water from responsibly managed springs, ensuring high water quality.

2.    Sparkling Ice Black Raspberry Sparkling Water

Sparkling Ice Black Raspberry Sparkling Water is another brand identified by Consumer Reports as having no detected PFAs levels. By offering a PFAs-free alternative, Sparkling Ice ensures that consumers can enjoy their sparkling water without worrying about potential health risks.

3.    Spindrift

Spindrift, another brand recognised by Consumer Reports, offers sparkling water with PFAs levels as low as 0.19 ppt (parts per trillion). This lower PFAs concentration makes Spindrift a potentially safer option for consumers concerned about their drinking water’s safety.

4.    San Pellegrino

San Pellegrino, a well-known brand in the bottled water industry, was also found to have lower PFAs levels at 0.31 ppt. The brand’s commitment to providing a safer alternative showcases its dedication to consumer well-being.

5.    Dasani

Dasani, a popular bottled water brand, was identified by Consumer Reports as having PFAs levels as low as 0.37 ppt. By prioritising product safety, Dasani aims to provide consumers with peace of mind when choosing their drinking water.

6.    Schweppes

Schweppes, known for its wide range of sparkling water products, also demonstrated its commitment to consumer safety by offering products with PFAs levels as low as 0.58 ppt.

Helping Consumers Make Informed Choices

Consumer awareness plays a pivotal role in shaping the bottled water industry. By being informed about the potential risks associated with PFAs exposure, consumers can make conscious choices about the water they consume.

Through the dissemination of information, consumers can encourage brands to prioritise safety and transparency. Brands that undertake third-party testing, adopt sustainable packaging practices, and offer PFAs-free products are more likely to gain consumer trust and support.

Addressing the Future: Advancing Water Safety and Sustainability

As concerns surrounding PFAs in bottled water continue to grow, it is essential for the industry to address these challenges proactively. Apart from identifying PFAs-free brands, there are other crucial steps that can be taken to ensure water safety and promote sustainability.

1.    Enhanced Water Testing and Transparency

Brands should invest in rigorous and comprehensive third-party testing to monitor PFAs and other potential contaminants regularly. By providing transparent access to these test results, consumers can make informed decisions about the bottled water they choose to purchase. Openly sharing test data not only builds consumer trust but also demonstrates a commitment to safety and quality.

2.    Sustainable Packaging Initiatives

In addition to PFAs concerns, the bottled water industry faces scrutiny regarding plastic waste and its impact on the environment. Brands can take a step towards sustainability by adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions. Encouraging the use of recyclable materials and supporting initiatives for plastic waste reduction can significantly contribute to a greener future.

3.    Supporting Water Conservation Efforts

Preserving and protecting water sources is vital to ensuring a sustainable water supply for future generations. Brands can contribute to this effort by supporting water conservation initiatives and investing in responsible water-sourcing practices. Transparently communicating their commitment to water conservation can encourage consumer support and loyalty.

Regulations Concerning PFA’s in Water

The Consumer Reports study has brought to light the importance of establishing more stringent regulations concerning PFAs in bottled water. While some brands have taken proactive measures, the broader issue requires concerted efforts from governments and regulatory bodies.

Stricter regulations with enforceable limits are necessary to safeguard public health effectively. By holding the industry accountable and implementing comprehensive regulations, governments can ensure that bottled water products are safe and free from harmful PFAs.

Conclusion

The concerns surrounding ‘forever chemicals’ like PFAs in bottled water have raised valid questions about the safety of these products. Sparkling water, in particular, has been found to contain elevated levels of PFAs, sparking concerns among consumers.

However, some bottled water brands have taken proactive measures to ensure consumer safety. JUST Water, Sparkling Ice, Spindrift, San Pellegrino, Dasani, and Schweppes are among the brands offering PFAs-free alternatives, prioritising transparency and consumer well-being.

Consumers can further drive positive change by making informed choices and supporting brands that prioritise safety and transparency. By demanding safer alternatives and responsible practices, consumers can influence the bottled water industry’s trajectory towards a safer and more sustainable future.

Governments and regulatory bodies must also play a vital role in protecting public health. By enacting stricter regulations and enforcing limits on PFAs levels, they can ensure that bottled water products meet the highest safety standards.

The pursuit of zero PFAs in bottled water is a collective responsibility. Together, through consumer advocacy and collaborative efforts, we can create a healthier and safer future for the bottled water industry. By supporting brands that prioritise consumer safety and transparency, we can make a positive impact on our health and the environment.