Is There PFAS in Sparkling Water?

What are PFAS and why are they harmful?

PFAS are a group of man-made compounds used to repel moisture, resist heat, and provide non-stick surfaces. They are labeled “forever chemicals” because they break down slowly, persisting in water, soil, and human bodies for years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), PFAS were detected in the blood of nearly 97 percent of Americans tested, indicating wide-reaching exposure.

Studies from the National Toxicology Program have reported that certain types of PFAS, such as PFOA and PFOS, may suppress immune function and contribute to various health problems, including kidney disease and reproductive issues. They also bioaccumulate, meaning that repeated consumption can elevate PFAS levels in our bodies over time. Because of these concerns, some states have introduced lower permissible limits for PFAS in water than those set at the federal level.

How could PFAS end up in sparkling water?

Most sparkling water brands source their water from municipal systems or natural springs. If the water supply in these locations is already contaminated with PFAS, the bottling process will not eliminate these chemicals. Even though carbonation itself does not add PFAS, it does not remove them either, so they remain in the final product.

Manufacturing facilities, military sites, and firefighting foam usage have historically released PFAS into soil and groundwater. In turn, public water systems draw from these affected sources, and the contamination eventually appears in consumer products such as sparkling water. Some companies treat their water to remove impurities, but the efficiency of filtration can vary depending on the methods used.

Have PFAS been found in sparkling water brands?

Many of us have encountered news stories or lab tests highlighting PFAS contamination in bottled water. Several third-party investigations have revealed measurable levels of these chemicals in popular carbonated products.

Lab studies and Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports analyzed more than 40 bottled water brands, including 12 carbonated varieties, and identified detectable PFAS levels in many samples. According to that study, the highest PFAS level among the tested sparkling waters reached 9.76 parts per trillion (ppt). Additional research, including a United States Geological Survey report from July 2023, concluded that approximately 45 percent of U.S. tap water could contain at least one type of PFAS, suggesting a large reservoir of possible contamination.

Brands that have tested positive

Topo Chico was flagged by Consumer Reports for having 9.76 ppt of PFAS. Other brands, including certain batches of La Croix and Canada Dry sparkling waters, were cited as having elevated levels above 1 ppt. While these numbers may be lower than some recommended cutoffs, they still raise concerns for individuals who are mindful of ongoing, long-term exposure.

Brands that are considered safer or PFAS-free

Several sparkling water brands tested below 1 ppt for total PFAS, including Sparkling Ice Black Raspberry Sparkling Water, Spindrift Raspberry Lime Sparkling Water, San Pellegrino Natural Sparkling Mineral Water, and Dasani Black Cherry Sparkling Water. These products showed significantly lower PFAS readings, which may make them more appealing to health-conscious consumers. It is important to note, however, that PFAS levels can shift over time if sources or processes change.

What levels of PFAS are considered unsafe?

Experts disagree on exact thresholds, but the federal government historically offered a non-enforceable health advisory at 70 ppt combined for PFOA and PFOS in drinking water. Individual states have gone lower; some have established guidelines between 12 and 20 ppt. The International Bottled Water Association recommends no more than 5 ppt for a single PFAS compound or 10 ppt for multiple compounds in bottled water, which is more stringent than the federal recommendation.

In April 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a National Primary Drinking Water Regulation limiting certain PFAS compounds to 4 ppt. Public drinking water systems have until 2029 to meet these standards, though compliance could be extended to 2031. Many observers view these developments as progress, but some health groups continue to advocate for a stricter approach, arguing that no level of exposure is truly safe.

Does the FDA or EPA regulate PFAS in sparkling water?

The EPA’s primary focus is public water systems, rather than specifically regulating bottled beverages. Its new standards will require public water suppliers to monitor PFAS levels and to act if these exceed 4 ppt. Bottled water falls under the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which has not issued a specific PFAS limit for these products. However, the FDA has expanded its testing of foods and drinks suspected of PFAS contamination.

Consumer Reports and other independent laboratories fill the gap by regularly testing bottled beverages and publishing their findings. While these reports are not official regulations, they can provide insight into whether a brand is consistently below or above recommended PFAS limits. For more broad data on how PFAS affects public taps, see pfas in drinking water.

Can you filter PFAS out of bottled beverages?

Once a sealed bottle leaves the production line, there is little you can do to remove PFAS from the beverage itself. At-home water filters, including certain reverse osmosis systems, can reduce PFAS levels in tap water before you carbonate it. Brands may use granular activated carbon, ion exchange resins, or reverse osmosis themselves during production, but the effectiveness depends on how strict and well-maintained these systems are.

For those looking for long-term solutions, advanced filtration can minimize PFAS contamination in tap water. Technologies such as activated carbon or reverse osmosis have been cited by the EPA as effective for removing many PFAS compounds. Further details on filtration methods can be found in pfas water filter and does reverse osmosis remove pfas.

How to choose a PFAS-free sparkling water

We recommend the following steps to reduce the likelihood of PFAS exposure when picking a carbonated beverage:

1. Consult testing data: Independent organizations like Consumer Reports often publish detailed findings on PFAS levels. Prioritize brands that consistently register minimal or near-undetectable amounts.

2. Check brand transparency: Companies that publish public data on their water testing or filtration methods help consumers understand the purity of their products.

3. Carbonate at home: By using properly filtered tap water, you can create sparkling beverages with minimal PFAS risk. Make sure your filtration system is certified to remove PFAS compounds.

4. Watch for updates: Brands may invest in new filtration or source changes that alter PFAS levels, so staying informed can help you make the best decisions.

Should you discover that certain brands test above your comfort level, consider rotating your beverage choices or switching to products with verifiably low PFAS content. Over time, consistent exposure can amplify accumulation in the body, so reducing any known sources of contamination is a prudent move.

Should you be concerned about occasional exposure?

For most healthy adults, an occasional can of sparkling water containing low PFAS levels is unlikely to trigger immediate health problems. The bigger worry is long-term ingestion, as PFAS bioaccumulate in the human body. Over time, these chemicals can contribute to increased risk of liver disease, thyroid issues, and other health complications.

Epidemiological studies have linked PFAS exposure to altered immune and thyroid function, lipid dysregulation, and potential links to reproductive and developmental challenges. Research indicates that children, pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems may be particularly vulnerable. If your overall PFAS exposure is substantial and you are experiencing related health effects, you may want to consult a professional about testing your blood or your local water supply. Additional insights on potential risks can be found in pfas health effects.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is there an official federal limit for PFAS in sparkling water?

Not at this time. The EPA’s National Primary Drinking Water Regulation focuses on tap water, mandating a 4 ppt limit for certain PFAS in public systems. Bottled water regulation falls under the FDA, which has not finalized a specific PFAS standard.

Which sparkling water brand had the highest PFAS levels reported?

Consumer Reports identified Topo Chico with 9.76 ppt, which was the highest among the carbonated options evaluated in their study. However, brand formulations and water sources can change over time.

Are there any truly PFAS-free sparkling water options?

Some brands show PFAS levels below 1 ppt, such as Sparkling Ice, Spindrift, and Dasani’s flavored varieties. These results suggest they are close to PFAS-free under current testing methods, but complete elimination is difficult to guarantee.

Can carbon filters remove PFAS from sparkling water?

Once bottled, there is no simple way to filter PFAS out of the beverage. Home filtration is most effective before carbonation. Systems like reverse osmosis and granular activated carbon can reduce PFAS in tap water prior to bottling or home use.

Does PFAS cause cancer?

Some studies point to increased risks of kidney, testicular, and other cancers in populations with higher PFAS exposure. Research indicates potential connections to immune and endocrine disruptions too. For more on long-term implications, refer to pfas and cancer.

Do carbonated beverages besides sparkling water contain PFAS?

It depends on the water source and filtration process. Any beverage produced with PFAS-contaminated water may carry trace amounts. Independent lab reports are a good way to gauge the status of specific brands.

What steps can I take if I suspect PFAS have harmed my health?

Monitoring your exposure through testing and consulting medical experts are good first steps. If you believe your PFAS exposure may have resulted from corporate negligence or a contaminated water supply, you can explore legal avenues for compensation.