By now, you’ve probably heard of PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
These manufactured chemicals have been used for almost a century to make everyday products more durable and resistant to water and stains. The issue is that PFAS don’t break down easily in the environment or in the human body. Hence the name: forever chemicals.
PFAS are also more common than most people realize.
Roughly 7 million Americans are exposed to PFAS in their drinking water. Here’s how you can reduce your risk. They show up in fast-food wrappers, nonstick cookware, certain clothing and even drinking water. In other words, forever chemicals aren’t just a niche environmental issue — they affect roughly 7 million people, and they’re essentially hiding in plain sight.
In recent years, research has uncovered multiple risks associated with long-term exposure to PFAS. As these chemicals accumulate in the body, they can mimic fatty acids, alter gene expression and potentially disrupt critical biological processes, especially in the immune and endocrine systems.
A 2021 health review published in the National Library of Medicine indicates that serious health issues, including higher cholesterol, thyroid disorders and even certain cancers, are associated with PFAS.
Fortunately, some public protections against PFAS are starting to take shape — and individuals can play a role in the fight against forever chemicals, too
In 2024, the EPA established enforceable limits for six different types of PFAS in drinking water, known as Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs). Now, PFOA and PFOS are currently capped at 4.0 parts per trillion (PPT). While this is the legal cap for public water systems, the long-term goal is to reach 0 PPT.
Some states are still more vulnerable to PFAS contamination. A map of the crises highlights New Jersey and California as hotspots where levels are above proposed limits. These states have enacted stricter laws and banned certain high-PFA products, including certain cosmetics and children’s goods.
Beyond regulations, there are simple lifestyle changes that can reduce PFAS exposure at home, from avoiding non-stick cookware to cutting back on plastic-wrapped snacks and reducing bottled water use. There’s also technology designed to actively remove chemicals forever from water.
According to the EPA, using a water filter is among the most effective ways to reduce exposure to ‘forever chemicals’ in your home’s drinking water.
Of course, not all water filters are built the same. Reverse osmosis systems are widely considered the gold standard for households. RO filters work by pushing water through an ultra-thin membrane that strips away microscopic chemical compounds, providing a very high level of purification.
It’s not just about improving taste or odor — although RO systems can help with that too — it’s about helping families move closer to a 0 PPT standard in their water. Premium water filters, such as the Waterdrop Filter, have the data to back up their claims.
Independent testing found that Waterdrop Filter’s RO systems remove up to 98% of PFOS and PFOA. Both the Tankless RO System and X Series Undersink System also meet NSF/ANSI standards, filtering for a range of common contaminants beyond PFAS, including heavy metals like copper and mercury.
At Waterdrop Filter, there is a range of models available depending on one’s needs and budget, whether you’re a renter looking for a compact countertop system or a homeowner seeking a permanent under-sink solution that can serve the whole family.
The company also offers a simple entry-level system that doesn’t require any permanent plumbing changes, which is ideal for first-time users who want to save space and time.
At the end of the day, fighting chemicals forever isn’t just a matter of public regulations. Health-conscious individuals can use their tools — water filters included — to intentionally limit exposure to PFAS in their own home.
This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter. As a health-forward member of Gen Z, Miska seeks out experts to weigh in on the benefits, safety and designs of both trending and tried-and-true fitness equipment, workout clothing, dietary supplements and more. Taking matters into her own hands, Miska intrepidly tests wellness products, ranging from Bryan Johnson’s Blueprint Longevity Mix to the viral Oura Ring to Jennifer Aniston’s favorite workout platform – often with her adorable toddler by her side. Before joining The Post, Miska covered lifestyle and consumer topics for the U.S. Sun and The Cannon Beach Gazette.
