Study Finds ‘Forever Chemicals’ in 95% of U.S. Beers Tested

Fast Summary

• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as forever chemicals, were found in beer brewed in areas with PFAS-contaminated water sources across the U.S.
• A study published in Environmental Science & Technology tested 23 beers, including both domestic and international varieties.
• Researchers found PFAS in 95% of the beers tested, with higher concentrations linked to regions known for water system contamination.
• Beers brewed near the Cape Fear River Basin in North Carolina showed particularly elevated levels of PFOS and PFOA (EPA-regulated forever chemicals).
• Current brewery filtration systems are not designed to remove PFAS, suggesting a potential risk for these chemicals entering consumer products like beer.
• The study highlights the need for enhanced water treatment measures at breweries or updated municipal water systems to limit overall exposure to PFAS.

Read More

Indian Opinion Analysis
This research underscores an increasing global concern regarding environmental contamination by PFAS and it’s infiltration into everyday consumer products such as food and beverages. For India,where groundwater pollution is a major challenge,this study raises awareness about possible scenarios involving overlooked contaminants like these “forever chemicals.” India’s reliance on groundwater for brewing operations could possibly make it vulnerable if similar issues exist but remain unmonitored or inadequately addressed.

While current concerns primarily focus on industrial effluents or agricultural runoff affecting drinking water supplies within India,this example from the U.S. might push Indian regulators to revisit legislation surrounding advanced water filtration standards-not only at municipal levels but also sector-specific facilities like breweries. Additionally, fostering research partnerships can definitely help determine weather these persistent pollutants are present locally and how they might impact human health over time through consumables.

Adopting effective strategies earlier than necessitated could provide long-term public health benefits while also highlighting India’s commitment to evolving scientific challenges concerning environmental toxins.