Here's a breakdown of how PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) enter our water, food, and homes, based on the most authoritative sources available.

Industrial Discharge is a significant pathway for PFAS contamination. Factories that manufacture products containing PFAS can release contaminated wastewater directly into the environment. This wastewater can then pollute rivers, lakes, and groundwater, which serve as sources of drinking water. A well-known example of this is the contamination of the Ohio River by DuPont/Chemours due to the release of PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), a type of PFAS.[1]

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Agricultural Runoff is another major contributor to PFAS contamination. This occurs when PFAS-contaminated materials are used in agriculture. One example is the use of sewage sludge, also known as biosolids, as fertilizer on agricultural fields. These biosolids can contain high levels of PFAS, which are then absorbed by plants and can accumulate in livestock that consume contaminated water or feed. This leads to the contamination of crops and animal products, which then enter the food supply.[2]

Consumer products also play a role in PFAS exposure. Many everyday items contain PFAS, including non-stick cookware, food packaging, firefighting foam, and cosmetics. These products can release PFAS into the environment during manufacturing, use, and disposal. For instance, PFAS can leach from food packaging into food, and from cookware into food during cooking. Furthermore, the disposal of these products in landfills can lead to PFAS leaching into the soil and groundwater.[3]

Atmospheric Deposition is also a pathway for PFAS contamination. PFAS can be transported through the atmosphere and deposited through rainfall and other forms of precipitation. This means that even areas far from direct sources of PFAS pollution can still be exposed to these chemicals. This widespread atmospheric transport contributes to the ubiquitous presence of PFAS in the environment.[4]

In summary, the main ways PFAS enter our water, food, and homes are:

• Industrial Discharge: Factories release contaminated wastewater into the environment.[1]
• Agricultural Runoff: PFAS-contaminated biosolids are used as fertilizer, leading to contamination of crops and livestock.[2]
• Consumer Products: PFAS leach from products into food and the environment.[3]
• Atmospheric Deposition: PFAS are transported through the atmosphere and deposited through rainfall.[4]

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