What Are PFAS (aka forever chemicals) and Why They Are a Problem

PFAS are a large group of human-made chemicals. These substances are nicknamed “forever chemicals” because they don’t easily degrade in the environment and are highly persistent in the human body and natural world.

Once released into the environment, e.g. during manufacturing or after leaching from a consumer product, PFAS are very mobile and tend to migrate in the water and remain intact for very long periods of time. PFAS have been found in ecosystems all around the world, even in the most remote areas such as the Arctic. They have also been detected in the blood and breast milk of people and wildlife globally.

Because it is extremely challenging for water treatment plants to remove PFAS from water, contamination of drinking water with PFAS is a rising issue.

What are PFAS?

PFAS (Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances), also known as the “forever chemicals”, are a large chemical family of over 10,000 that contain carbon-fluorine bonds, which are among the strongest in organic chemistry.

These highly persistent chemicals don’t occur in nature. [1]

Types of PFAS

There are thousands of different PFAS chemicals, but these are mainly divided into two groups: polymers and non-polymers.

Examples of polymers include PTFE, FEP, ETFE, and PFA. They are referred to as ‘polymers of low concern’ due to their high molecular weight and are extremely stable.

Non-polymer PFAS are considered more dangerous and have been researched far more extensively. They appear to be relatively more abundant at PFAS investigation sites and have been most commonly detected in humans, and the environment. [2]

What are PFAS used in?

PFAS are used in a wide range of consumer products due to their ability to repel both grease and water.

Common Uses Include:

Non-stick cookware (e.g., Teflon)
Waterproof clothing and fabric treatments
Stain-resistant carpets and upholstery
Food packaging (e.g., microwave popcorn bags, fast-food wrappers)
Firefighting foam (AFFF – aqueous film-forming foam)
Cosmetics and other consumer goods (e.g. smartphones)

How do PFAS affect human health?

PFAS used in everyday products leak into the environment during production, use, and disposal, and are now persistent in the human body.

These chemicals can accumulate over time and pose significant risks to human health. Research has linked PFAS exposure to a range of health problems, which can vary in severity depending on the level and duration of exposure.

PFAS exposure has been linked to:

Kidney and testicular cancer
Liver damage
Hormonal Disruption
Immune System Impairment
High cholesterol and heart disease
Ulcerative colitis
Obesity
Reduced Response to vaccines

Ongoing research continues to explore other potential health risks associated with PFAS, including effects on the nervous system, metabolism, and even the risk of autoimmune diseases. However, more studies are needed to fully understand the breadth of their impact on human health. [3]

How are PFAS regulated?

In August 2024, the Drinking Water Inspectorate published updated guidance for PFAS in drinking water. The new total limit on PFAS (the sum of 48 measured PFAS) should not exceed 100 ng/L which is equivalent to 0.1 parts per billion in England and Wales as of 1 January 2025.  [4]

Our Water Treatment Solutions

Reducing exposure to PFAS and addressing their presence in the environment is essential to preventing long-term health problems in individuals and populations. It is stated that the biggest exposure by far is known to be consumption through drinking water. [5]

We have a range of water treatment products that are specifically designed to remove PFAS from the drinking water.

At Pump Express, we recognize that the UK’s water supply is among the best globally, but we believe drinking water should be pure—nothing else.

If you want cleaner water for peace of mind, taste, or health, we have the perfect solution. Explore our range below or call 01633 244777 for a chat!

Find Out More About Our Range Of PFAS Filters..

Reference List: 

[1] https://chemtrust.org/pfas/

[2] https://dwi.gov.uk/pfas-and-forever-chemicals/

[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7906952/

[4] https://www.rsc.org/policy-evidence-campaigns/environmental-sustainability/sustainability-reports-surveys-and-campaigns/cleaning-up-uk-drinking-water/

[5] https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/poly-and-perfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas-sources-pathways-and-environmental-data/poly-and-perfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas-sources-pathways-and-environmental-data-summary.