TFA Contamination Found in 92% of French Tap Water

France’s ANSES agency has revealed widespread contamination of tap water by trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a small PFAS “forever chemical,” in a nationwide study. The analysis of over 600 tap and raw water samples collected between 2023 and 2025 found TFA in 92% of samples, representing around 20% of the country’s drinking water supply.

TFA, the smallest molecule in the PFAS family, is persistent in the environment and suspected to be toxic to reproduction. The study highlights the growing public health concern from TFA accumulation, which can affect human fertility and development.

The ANSES report did not test bottled water, though prior research by Pesticide Action Network Europe in 2024 indicated that bottled mineral water in France also contained TFA. Experts warn urgent action is needed to reduce exposure to this widespread environmental contaminant.

08-12-2025