Americans are becoming more aware (and concerned) about the chemicals they’re exposed to. When targeting the sources of these chemicals, many are looking at ways to improve the quality of their tap water.
Whether your water source contains high levels of chlorine or heavy metals, installing the right water filtration system can improve taste and overall quality. But what about the contaminants labeled as “forever chemicals”?
What are these chemicals, where do they come from, and how do you reduce your exposure to them? Here is a look at the history of PFAS, a group of man-made chemicals that do not readily break down and pose a threat to the environment and human health.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS — or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — are long-lasting chemicals. Certain components in these chemicals take a very long time to break down, yet they are widely used.
From food packaging to furniture, personal care to household products, PFAS in these products seep into the environment and end up in drinking water sources. These PFAS chemicals in water are linked to many health effects, ranging from altered immune function to negative reproductive and developmental outcomes.
Today, organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) are mapping the PFAS crisis. So, when did this all begin? How long have PFAS been accumulating in the environment?
A Timeline of PFAS Use: Now and Then
The story of PFAS began in the 1930s, when Roy Plunkett at DuPont accidentally invented polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). You may know this chemical as Teflon, which coats many non-stick pans. This invention, which is one type of PFAS, signifies the beginning of PFAS development.
By the 1940s, commercial production of PFAS was well underway. Non-stick cookware, stain-resistant coatings, and industrial applications all contributed to a spike in PFAS use.
The applications of these chemicals led to the development of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) for military use. While early animal studies showed potential toxicity and health risks, these concerns were kept internal. Throughout the 1970s, AFFF was used at airports and military sites, contributing to environmental contamination.
Health concerns continued, with documentation and lawsuits piling up throughout the 1980s and 1990s. However, most of these issues were not publicly disclosed. By the early 2000s, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sounded the alarm, pursuing DuPont for failing to report risks. Unfortunately, it was too late. PFOA and PFOS — two common synthetic chemicals — were found in the blood of nearly every American.
What Action Was Taken?
In the 2010s, the EPA established new, stricter health advisories for chemicals in water, focusing on PFAS. At the time, the EWG identified nearly 500 industrial sites that could be releasing PFAS. Since then, environmental and health groups have been advocating for the public’s safety.
A final rule, issued by the EPA, was developed in April 2024. This rule, known as the National Primary Drinking Water Regulation, established legally enforceable maximum contaminant levels for certain PFAS in drinking water. PFOA and PFOS were also designated as hazardous substances.
So, while the potential effects were known for decades, it was only recently that legal limits were established.
PFAS Contamination Worsens
As of August 14, 2025, the EPA released nine rounds of PFAS testing data for public water systems. The latest data revealed 3,309 sites with detectable levels, based on test results from 75% of the community water systems. This additional figure brought the total known number of PFAS-contaminated sites to 9,552.
While more testing is required, the new data confirms that more than 172 million Americans across the United States are accessing drinking water that tests positive for PFAS.
What Can Be Done to Target PFAS?
Although alarming, you are not helpless to the effects of PFAS.
The first step is to determine whether your water source exceeds the latest PFAS limits. Check out interactive maps online and conduct a water test.
If PFAS are a concern — or if you’re worried about lead and other harmful contaminants — you can invest in a reverse osmosis (RO) water filtration system. This system is the best option for protecting your family from harmful PFAS.
Here are some effective options to target PFAS and other chemicals in water:
• Brio SIMPL RO Systems: Enjoy tankless RO undersink water filtration systems that are effortless to install, require minimal maintenance, and deliver advanced reverse osmosis filtration.
• Brio 4-Stage RO Water Coolers: Combine performance, benefiting from RO filtration that removes 99.9% of contaminants.
• Brio Countertop RO Systems: With the countertop system, you can enjoy 4-stage RO purified still or sparkling water anywhere — no plumbing required.
Brio Can Help You Reduce PFAS Chemicals in Water
If you’re concerned about your current water source, Brio has a wide range of innovative clean water solutions. Learn more about what Brio offers and browse the complete collection of water filtration and dispensing solutions today!
