Warning released: Researchers detect 'eternal pollutants' surpassing EPA thresholds in U.S. beers
Investigation Reveals Higher Levels of 'Forever Chemicals' in Beers Brewed with Contaminated Water
Researchers from the American Chemical Society (ACS) and RTI International have found significant levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called "forever chemicals," in beer samples from various parts of the United States and international locations.
The study, published in Environmental Science & Technology, particularly highlights state-level variations in contamination across the country. Beers brewed in North Carolina, near the Cape Fear River Basin where significant levels of PFAS pollution have been documented, showed the highest levels of these chemicals. Beers from Michigan and California presented lower, less diverse levels of PFAS compared to those from North Carolina.
The study also included beers from 17 counties across nine U.S. states, revealing strong correlations between PFAS concentrations in local municipal drinking water and the levels found in locally brewed beer.
Internationally, two beers from Mexico and one from the Netherlands showed lower levels of detectable PFAS than American beers, suggesting cleaner water sources and potentially more effective treatment processes in those regions.
Researchers emphasized that drinking water is the primary route for PFAS contamination in beer, as most breweries rely on municipal water that is not treated to remove these chemicals. PFAS levels were found in 95% of the tested beer samples.
The findings underscore the need for improved water treatment at both municipal and brewery levels, as well as greater awareness and regulation to limit overall PFAS exposure. They also suggest that consumers may wish to be mindful of the water sources used in the brewing of their favorite beers.
Jennifer Hoponick Redmon, the research lead, commented, "As an occasional beer drinker myself, I wondered whether PFAS in water supplies was making its way into our pints. I hope these findings inspire water treatment strategies and policies that help reduce the likelihood of PFAS in future pours."
The study adds to growing concerns about the long-term effects of PFAS exposure. Alcohol deaths have more than doubled in recent years, especially among women, with potential links to PFAS contamination. The study does not necessarily establish a direct causal relationship but provides insights into routes of exposure, highlighting the importance of ongoing research in this area.
- The American Chemical Society (ACS) and RTI International's research on 'forever chemicals' in beer underscores the need for improved water treatment at both municipal and brewery levels.
- Researchers have found that drinking water is the primary route for PFAS contamination in beer, as most breweries rely on municipal water that is not treated to remove these chemicals.
- The study reveals strong correlations between PFAS concentrations in local municipal drinking water and the levels found in locally brewed beer.
- Beers brewed in North Carolina, near the Cape Fear River Basin, showed the highest levels of these chemicals compared to beers from Michigan and California.
- Internationally, two beers from Mexico and one from the Netherlands showed lower levels of detectable PFAS than American beers, suggesting cleaner water sources and potentially more effective treatment processes in those regions.
- The findings of the study suggest that consumers may wish to be mindful of the water sources used in the brewing of their favorite beers due to the potential presence of PFAS.
