In the fall of 2006, PFAS investigations were expanded nationwide. Measuring points in the downstream of wastewater treatment plants and in the inflow of waterworks were investigated – especially in areas of high importance for the drinking water supply. In addition, regular survey measurements were carried out on selected surface waters in accordance with the requirements of the European Water Framework Directive.
Furthermore, selected groundwater monitoring wells were successively investigated for PFASs depending on their location and potential PFAS input sources as well as their location in drinking water catchment areas. In North Rhine-Westphalia, the results of more than 400 monitoring stations at over 100 different watercourses are available.
The investigations led to the identification of further sources of PFAS in the NRW water network. Reduction measures were implemented in the area of wastewater discharges from industrial and commercial operations.
New limits from 2026
To protect the population from the potential risks of PFAS, the European Union has decided to introduce new limits for PFAS in drinking water. From 2026, the maximum limit for PFAS will be 0.1 micrograms per liter . This limit is intended to ensure that drinking water does not contain harmful levels of PFAS, thus protecting the health of the population.
The German Bundesrat also sets limits with the new Drinking Water Directive (2). According to this, starting in 2026, suppliers must ensure that 20 of the PFAS substances do not exceed a total limit of 100 nanograms per liter. From 2028, a limit of 20 nanograms per liter will apply to the four PFASs of greatest concern.
The introduction of these new limits is an important step towards reducing PFAS contamination of drinking water. However, it is also critical that industry and other stakeholders involved take action to minimize the use of PFAS and find more environmentally friendly alternatives. Only through concerted efforts can we contain the dangers of PFAS and ensure the safety of our drinking water.
Despite the new version of the Drinking Water Ordinance that will be in force in the future, it is our responsibility to raise awareness of this environmental toxin and to take measures to protect our waters and our drinking water. Only through sustainable and environmentally conscious use of chemicals can we ensure a healthy and livable future for ourselves and future generations.
Chemists criticize level of PFAS limits
Of course, there is also criticism of the new PFAS limits. Some experts argue that the guideline levels set are still too high and do not provide sufficient protection against proliferation and health risks. In particular, they point out that even low levels of PFASs can have long-term health effects and therefore more stringent regulation is needed.
Furthermore, the regulation of PFAS-4 substances in drinking water, which are classified as particularly hazardous, is not scheduled to take place until 2028. This period of action is clearly too long, he said, considering the danger and scientific findings. This discussion illustrates that the issue of PFASs and the associated risks continue to require extensive attention and research.
Water treatment can be expensive
Removing PFAS from drinking water can be challenging and costly. Due to the chemical properties and persistence of PFAS, conventional water treatment technology is often insufficient to effectively remove these substances.
Special treatment processes such as activated carbon filtration or reverse osmosis, for example by a Solo Superpure under-sink filter, must be used to eliminate PFAS. However, these technologies require specialized equipment and regular maintenance, which can lead to increased operating costs for waterworks and water treatment plants. The financial implications of comprehensive PFAS removal should be considered when planning and implementing water quality measures.
Special testing program for drinking water
In order to monitor the contamination of drinking water with PFAS, the Bavarian State Office for Health and Food Safety (LGL) initiated a special testing program in 2006 to detect PFAS in drinking water. This program is designed to identify impacted areas, assess potential risks, and take appropriate actions to reduce exposure.
As part of the study, drinking water samples were selected based on risk and included supraregional suppliers, metropolitan areas, and areas with potential sources of environmental contaminants. The results showed that the background contamination of drinking water in Bavaria, with the exception of certain areas in the Altötting district, was far below the Drinking Water Commission’s target value of 0.1 micrograms per liter . In northern Bavaria, 42 percent of the samples did not contain any PFAS at all, while in southern Bavaria as many as 70 percent of the samples did not contain any PFAS. In the remaining samples, the levels of individual PFASs were below the target value. The results for the Altötting district were treated separately, as this district had a special position with regard to PFAS contamination due to the long-standing industrial use of PFOA.
In total, more than 100 different drinking waters were analyzed as part of the investigation program. The study shows that PFAS levels in Bavarian drinking water are generally low and that the applicable target values are met.
Tests for PFAS in table and mineral water
In addition to drinking water, table water and mineral water are also tested for the presence of PFAS. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the potential contamination of bottled water with these chemicals. Food regulatory agencies have responded by conducting intensive investigations to ensure the safety of these products. Through these tests, potentially contaminated products can be identified and removed from the market to protect consumers. It is important that PFAS control and regulation be extended not only to drinking water but also to other water sources to ensure comprehensive protection.
In 2009, the state Office of Health and Food Safety (LGL) studied a series of 26 table waters bottled in areas where drinking water is produced by bank filtration. The studies were intended to complement and replicate the previous 2007 studies on PFASs in riparian filtrate-influenced drinking waters. No PFASs were detected in 20 of the 26 table waters tested. Three samples contained traces that were below the detection limit. In three other samples, levels of individual PFASs were found to be above the detection limit.
The presence of PFAS in our drinking water and other water sources is a serious matter that requires continued attention and action. Both setting stricter limits and investing in effective water treatment technologies are important steps on the path to clean and healthy water for all. It is the responsibility of governments, industry and consumers to work together to take action to minimize exposure to PFAS and protect the environment and our health.
Can water filters protect against perfluorinated chemicals?
With growing concerns about PFAS contamination, many people are looking for ways to filter their drinking water at home. The question, however, is whether conventional water filters are capable of effectively removing perfluorinated chemicals.
There are several types of water filters on the market, including activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis systems, and ion exchange resins. Our Sanquell activated carbon filters are considered the most effective filters for removing PFAS. They can filter out a significant amount of these chemicals from the water. However, reverse osmosis systems and ion exchange resins can also reliably remove PFAS, although their efficiency may vary depending on filter quality.
It is important to note that the effectiveness of water filters depends on several factors, including the concentration and type of PFAS in the water and the specific filter technology. Therefore, even before buying a water filter, it is advisable to find out about its effectiveness and the specific contaminants it can remove. Certified filters, such as those from Sanquell, meet certain standards and can therefore be a better choice to ensure effective removal of PFAS.
Conclusion
The hazardousness of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances in drinking water is an important issue that needs to be carefully monitored and investigated. PFASs are persistent, bioaccumulative and can potentially have adverse health effects.
Although the samples tested (natural mineral water, table water and drinking water) in Bavaria were largely within the legal limits and below the recommended guideline values, regular monitoring and testing for PFAS is crucial. The health risks associated with PFAS in drinking water continue to require attention and action to minimize exposure and ensure the safety of drinking water.
