EPA issues warning over Teflon chemical in water

Water/wastewater

EPA issues warning over Teflon chemical in water

21 Jan, 2009

Published over 17 years ago. See the latest and most current information on Water/wastewater.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a warning against consuming water that contains more than 0.4 parts per billion of perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA.

However, the decision has come up against criticism, as scientists have previously recommended levels no higher than 0.2.

The chemical, which is toxic to humans, is used in the manufacture of Teflon and non-stick products.

"This is essentially legalising unsafe exposure levels. Nobody should have to drink a cancer-causing Teflon chemical in their water," stated Richard Wiles, executive director of the Environmental Working Group.

DuPont, which produces PFOA, has agreed to stop manufacturing the chemical within the next six years.

In related news, a study conducted jointly by British universities found that pollutants in UK waterways could be responsible for a decline in male fertility.

IET 36.2 Mar/Apr 2026

Explore our Digital Edition

Discover the latest news and research

Digital edition

Explore Our Other Sites

Labmate Online
Enhanced recirculating chiller range
Explore more Arrow
Pollution Solutions Online
New all-in-one fish silage system for aquaculture and fish processing industries
Explore more Arrow
Petro Online
Free webinar: enhancing accuracy and efficiency in renewable fuel laboratory testing
Explore more Arrow
Chromatography Today
Chromatography and XFEL imaging reveal critical point behind water’s behaviour
Explore more Arrow