PFAS in Australian Drinking Water: The Latest Findings

The tap runs, the kettle boils, and a steaming cup of tea fills the kitchen with its comforting aroma. But amidst the bustle, a question lingers: what about the water we're drinking?

The Ubiquitous PFAS

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a wide range of industries for decades due to their resistance to water, grease, and stains. They've earned nicknames like "forever chemicals" because they don't break down easily in the environment. FSANZ, the Australian/NZ regulator, has identified three principal contaminants of concern: PFOS, PFOA, and PFHxS.

The Australian Context: Low Levels, High Standards

In Australia, the regulatory body FSANZ has been proactive in setting health guidance values for PFAS compounds. They've established tolerable daily intakes (TDIs) of 20 ng/kg bw/day for PFOS and 160 ng/kg bw/day for PFOA. The 27th Australian Total Diet Study analyzed 30 PFAS in over a thousand food samples and concluded that levels in the general Australian food supply are very low, with PFOS being the only congener detected in a minority of the samples. This indicates that the overall dietary exposure to PFOS for the general Australian population is lower than the TDI, suggesting no public health and safety concerns.

Global Comparisons and Decreasing Trends

When we look at global comparisons, Australian levels of PFAS are lower than those found in other countries. The 2022–24 National Health Measures Survey revealed that while PFOS, PFHxS, and PFOA were detected in over 85% of the population, PFAS exposure has been decreasing over the past two decades. This downward trend is a positive sign, indicating that efforts to reduce PFAS exposure are having an effect.

Health Effects: Associations, Not Certainties

While the scientific literature on the effects of PFAS on human health is inconclusive, health authorities such as the US ATSDR report that studies have suggested associations between higher PFAS exposure and effects like raised cholesterol, lower vaccine antibody response, and (for PFOA) kidney/testicular cancer. It's important to note that these are associations, not proven cause-and-effect relationships, and results from animal studies do not always correlate with human health effects.

Reducing Needless Exposure: A Precautionary Approach

Given the inconclusive nature of the health effects and the associations reported by health authorities, a precautionary approach is prudent. Reducing needless exposure to PFAS where it's easy to do so can contribute to peace of mind. For instance, when it comes to cutting boards, opting for a Richlite-style board, made from compressed wood fibre and phenolic resin, can be a safer alternative to plastic boards, which are a documented source of microplastics in food.

What This Means for Your Kitchen

In the context of PFAS in drinking water, the latest findings from FSANZ suggest that while PFAS are widespread, dietary exposure for most Australians is low and below health guidance values. This should be a reassurance, but it also serves as a reminder to be mindful of the products we use in our homes, particularly those that come into contact with our food and water.

FAQ: PFAS in Australian Drinking Water

Q: Are PFAS levels in Australian drinking water a health concern? A: According to FSANZ, the levels of PFAS in the general Australian food supply, including drinking water, are very low and below the health guidance values, indicating no public health and safety concerns.

Q: How can I reduce my exposure to PFAS? A: Reducing needless exposure involves making thoughtful choices about the products you bring into your home. This can include using non-plastic cutting boards and being aware of the products you use for food storage and preparation.

Q: Is there anything I can do to remove PFAS from my drinking water? A: While PFAS are resistant to breakdown, using a water filter certified to remove PFAS can be an effective way to reduce exposure. It's also important to stay informed about local water quality reports and guidelines provided by health authorities.

A Final Thought

As we continue to learn more about PFAS and their potential health effects, it's clear that the situation is complex. However, with the latest findings indicating low levels in Australian drinking water and a decreasing trend in exposure, there's reason for reassurance. By taking a precautionary approach and making informed choices about the products we use in our homes, we can contribute to reducing needless exposure and ensuring the health and safety of our families.

Written by Adam Oliver, founder of Perfect Titanium.