PFAS and ‘Forever Chemicals’ in UK Tap Water: What You Need to Know

PFAS and ‘Forever Chemicals’ in UK Tap Water: What You Need to Know

In recent years, growing concern has emerged over a group of synthetic substances known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), often referred to as “forever chemicals.” These persistent pollutants have been found in water sources across the UK and pose serious health risks.

What Are PFAS and Why Are They Dangerous? PFAS are man-made chemicals used in a wide range of consumer products for their resistance to water, oil, and heat. They are extremely durable, which means they don’t break down easily in the environment or the human body. Once ingested, they accumulate over time, potentially leading to long-term health issues.

Where Are PFAS Found in the UK? Recent investigations have revealed the presence of PFAS in rivers, groundwater, and even treated tap water across parts of England, Scotland, and Wales. Industrial areas and regions with high use of firefighting foams are particularly at risk. DEFRA and the Environment Agency have started more rigorous monitoring in response to increasing public health concerns.

Health Risks of PFAS Exposure Studies link PFAS exposure to a range of health issues including:

• Certain cancers (kidney, testicular)
• Hormonal disruptions
• Immune system suppression
• Liver and kidney damage
• Developmental issues in infants and children

These risks are especially concerning given PFAS’ persistence and ability to accumulate over time, even from low-level exposure.

How to Protect Your Family from PFAS Boiling water does not remove PFAS. To effectively reduce exposure, the best solution is advanced water filtration. Filters certified for PFAS removal typically use:

• Activated Carbon – Adsorbs many PFAS compounds
• Reverse Osmosis – Removes a broad spectrum of contaminants including PFAS
• Ion Exchange Resins – Can target specific PFAS variants

Aura’s Multi-Layer Defence Against PFAS Aura’s filtration systems incorporate these proven technologies to help UK households combat PFAS contamination. With multi-stage systems that include both activated carbon and reverse osmosis, Aura offers robust protection designed to address even the most persistent chemical threats.

Take Action Today Awareness is the first step—but action is critical. With PFAS emerging as one of the most concerning water quality issues of our time, investing in a high-performance filtration system isn’t just a precaution—it’s a necessity. Trust Aura to deliver the peace of mind you deserve with cleaner, safer drinking water for your family.