Alert on TFA (PFAS): eternal pollutants present in bottled and tap water in Europe

While bottled water is often perceived as a 'healthier' alternative to tap water, recent analyses reveal a far more worrying reality. According to the Pesticide Action Network Europe (PAN Europe)several European mineral waters contain alarming levels of TFA (trifluoroacetic acid)a molecule derived from the degradation of certain pesticides and a persistent pollutant belonging to the family of PFAS.

The figures speak for themselves:

Visit 19 mineral water samples tested in seven countries, 10 contain traces of TFA (study dated 3 December 2024 - summary and source below (link to bottom of article).
Some waters contain levels of TFA up to 32 times higher than the regulatory limit for drinking water.
Analyses carried out by the association Générations Futures (summary and source below (link to bottom of article) reveal that 63 % mineral water contain TFA.

The water in Villers, Belgium, for example, has a record level of 3.4 µg/Lor 34 times the standard. Yet these waters come from sources that are supposedly protected against contaminants. This paradox highlights the inability of groundwater to escape diffuse pollution, in particular from PFASThese "eternal pollutants" persist in the environment for decades.

Tap water: a better alternative despite challenges

Contrary to some preconceived ideas, tap water is still one of the best sources of drinking water in the world. the best monitored in France. Current treatment systems are capable of eliminating many contaminants such as bacteria, pesticides and heavy metals. However, the PFAS and, in particular, the TFAoften escape conventional treatment.

Worrying facts about tap water :

À Paristhe TFA content reaches 2.1 µg/Lor 20 times the quality limit.
Although TFA is not yet systematically monitored, the Agences Régionales de Santé (ARS) will have to include 20 PFAS in their analyses by 2010. 2026.

According to Julie Mendret, a researcher specialising in water treatment at the University of Montpellier, tap water contains less microplastics than bottled water. What's more, a large proportion of the pesticides present in our environment come from other sources, such as food.

Why choose tap water?

Increased surveillance Drinking water is subject to regular public analyses, available from the ARS.
Less microplastics : Unlike bottled water, which contains up to 240,000 plastic particles per litreTap water is not stored in plastic containers.
Economic and ecological impact Bottled water costs on average 150 to 200 times more expensive than tap water and generates a significant amount of plastic waste.

Complementary solutions: home filtration

Despite increased monitoring, the complete elimination of PFAS, including TFA, requires advanced technologies. It is in this context that innovative solutions such as the Opropre Turquoise filter stand out.

This system, developed by LAVIEassociates a high quality activated carbon and a specific resin targeting PFAS. It effectively eliminates eternal pollutantsand the heavy metals and microplastics present in tap water.

The Opropre Turquoise system at a glance :

Elimination of PFAS and TFA (as well as heavy metals, pesticides and micro plastics) thanks to a high-performance resin.
Ecological: Returnable and recyclable cartridge.
Easy to install Fits directly under the sink for purified water every day.

Synergy with LAVIE water purifiers

For pure water at every level, the Opropre Turquoise can be combined with water purifiers LAVIE. While LAVIE purifiers focus on the elimination of chlorineand bacteria and organic compoundsthe Opropre filter acts upstream to block the PFAS and other resistant contaminants.

This dual approach guarantees exceptionally pure water, free from pollutants. chemicals, organics and plasticswhile preserving essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

To find out more: Summary table of the specific features of each LAVIE technology

Conclusion: Which water to choose?

While bottled water is far from pure, tap water remains a healthier, more economical and environmentally friendly alternative. However, to meet the challenges posed by PFAS and other persistent contaminants, household solutions such as Opropre Turquoise filter coupled with UV-A purification technology from LAVIE offer a complete solution for water pure and healthy at home.

Key figures from the PAN Europe study on TFA

Source

10 samples out of 19 mineral waters tested in 7 European countries contain traces of TFA.
The concentrations recorded vary from 50 nanograms per litre (ng/L)limit of quantification, up to 3200 ng/L.
This figure 3200 ng/L represents 32 times the regulatory limit set at 0.1 µg/L (100 ng/L) for relevant metabolites in drinking water.

These results illustrate the presence of worrying TFA, even in waters that are supposed to be protected and "pure".

Summary of key data from the Générations Futures report on TFA

Source

Widespread presence of TFA :
– 63 % bottled mineral and spring waters contain TFA.
– 34 out of 36 tap water samples tested in Europe contain TFA (94 %).
Levels of contamination :
- Concentrations of TFA in tap water vary between < 20 ng/L (non-detectable) and 4 100 ng/Lwith a average of 740 ng/L.
- Concentrations of TFA in mineral water vary between < 20 ng/L (non-detectable) and 3200 ng/Lwith a average of 278 ng/L.
Indicative limits and legislation :
- The limit recommended by theDutch Institute RIVM for TFA in drinking water is 2200 ng/L.
- In 2026a limit of 500 ng/L for all PFAS will come into force in the European Union, but the inclusion of TFA is still pending. uncertain.
Main source of pollution :
- The PFAS pesticides are identified as the main cause of TFA contamination of water, followed by fluorinated gasesand industrial activities.
Health risks :
- Although current levels appear to be within provisional safety limits, the toxicological data on TFA are limited.
- Some studies show similar effects to other, better-known PFASs, in particular liver damage and birth defects at high concentrations.

These results demonstrate the widespread presence of TFA in the water consumed in Europe, and underline the urgent need to establish specific quality standards to protect public health and prevent further contamination.

Article written on 12/12/2024 by Pascal Nuti - CIO Solable - Passionate about energy, I'm constantly on the lookout for new targets for improvement, exploring cross-disciplinary paths using novel methods.