Tap water in Reading is not always safe for our health. Recent studies have highlighted concerning contamination levels. In particular, tests by UK researchers revealed the presence of PFAS in tap water that could pose long-term health risks.
These “forever chemicals” are highly persistent and resistant to degradation, raising significant health concerns. This underscores the importance of finding alternatives to ensure safe drinking water.
PFAS: nearly indestructible pollutants
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), sometimes called “forever chemicals,” are a group of synthetic compounds with unique properties, including exceptional chemical and thermal stability. This resistance to breakdown is due to strong carbon-fluorine bonds, among the strongest in organic chemistry. PFAS include over 4,000 compounds, such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS).
Widely used since the 1950s across industries and household products, PFAS are valued for their non-stick, water-repellent, and heat-resistant properties. They can be found in cookware coatings, food packaging, firefighting foams, waterproof textiles, and cosmetics.
PFAS are highly persistent in the environment, and many pose health risks. Some, like PFOA and PFOS, are classified as carcinogenic, toxic to reproduction, or endocrine disruptors, and have been linked to kidney and testicular cancers, fertility issues, thyroid and liver problems.
PFAS |
Usage |
Health Impacts |
Toxicity Threshold (µg/L) |
PFOA |
Non-stick coatings |
Carcinogenic, affects thyroid |
0.10 |
PFOS |
Firefighting foams |
Carcinogenic, affects liver |
0.20 |
PFNA |
Food packaging |
Endocrine disruptor |
0.05 |
PFDA |
Waterproof textiles |
Fertility issues |
0.01 |
Significant PFAS levels detected in Reading
A recent UK investigation revealed that tap water in Reading contains measurable amounts of PFAS. Of the 25 PFAS compounds tested, 9 were detected. Among these, PFOA is classified as carcinogenic and PFOS is potentially carcinogenic. PFHxS, another detected compound, is now banned due to its thyroid and fertility toxicity.
Where does the contamination come from?
Although levels are below UK regulatory limits (0.1 µg per litre), local water authorities are monitoring two particularly concerning PFAS closely. The exact source is not yet confirmed, but historical landfill sites are suspected, and investigations are ongoing.
Measures to remediate potential contamination are underway.
Local and national responses
Water authorities have reassured the public that detected PFAS levels remain below legal thresholds, but health concerns persist due to the long-term risks associated with even low-level exposure. Authorities are strengthening surveillance and performing regular tests across the network. Additional measures, such as installing activated carbon filters at treatment plants, are being considered.
Education campaigns will also encourage industrial reduction of PFAS discharge.
PFAS: a UK and global problem
Sampling in around 90 UK towns has revealed PFAS in 43% of tested tap water samples. This widespread contamination highlights the need for national and global awareness and action, as PFAS have contaminated soil, surface water, and groundwater over decades.
How to drink safe water
Tap water contains essential minerals for health, but contamination levels can be high. PFAS are not the only concern—heavy metals and other dangerous chemicals may also be present. The most effective solution is to use a gravity filter coupled with activated carbon, which removes around 99% of these chemicals.
- Simple to use: fill the upper chamber and let gravity remove impurities.
- Portable: no electricity needed.
- Made from food-grade stainless steel (AISI 304).
Within five minutes, your system will be ready to purify tap water, river water, or other non-potable sources—something a standard water filter jug cannot achieve.
