PFAS in Tap Water: How to protect your family

PFAS in Tap Water: How to protect your family

Water is foundational to wellbeing, not just as something we drink, but something that fuels, nourishes and restores us. But as awareness grows around environmental toxins, many Australians are starting to question what’s really in their tap water.

One group of contaminants making headlines is PFAS, a class of synthetic chemicals earning attention (and concern) for their presence in our environment, our food, and our drinking water.

So, what exactly are PFAS, and should you be worried about them?

What are PFAS?

PFAS stands for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a group of man-made chemicals used since the 1950s in everything from non-stick cookware and water-resistant clothing to firefighting foam. Known for their water-, oil- and heat-resistant properties, PFAS were once hailed as a modern breakthrough.

Over time, scientists discovered something troubling: these chemicals don’t easily break down in the environment or the human body. That’s why they’re often referred to as ‘forever chemicals.’

Common sources of PFAS exposure include:

• Drinking contaminated water
• Eating fish or produce from contaminated areas
• Using products with PFAS coatings (e.g. fast-food packaging, non-stick cookware, certain makeup and beauty products)
• Inhalation of indoor dust or exposure to stain-resistant fabrics

There are lots of different types of PFAS, but for the purposes of this article, we’re focusing on some of the most common: including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS), hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid and its ammonium salt (GenX chemicals).

What are the health effects of PFAS?

Growing evidence suggests that long-term exposure to PFAS may be linked to a range of health concerns. Because these chemicals build up in the body over time, even low-level exposure may become significant, especially for children and those with pre-existing conditions.

Recent studies have found potential links between PFAS and a range of health issues, including changes in immune and thyroid function, liver and kidney problems, and hormone and cholesterol disruption. There are also concerns around developmental effects in children and possible links to certain types of cancer, such as kidney and testicular cancer.

While research is ongoing, most health experts and environmental groups agree it’s wise to limit exposure where you can. 

How do PFAS get into tap water? 

While PFAS chemicals aren’t produced in Australia, they have been imported here and used in everyday products for decades. These substances can enter the environment and our water systems through industrial runoff, firefighting foams, and household wastewater (such as from washing PFAS-treated clothing or using non-stick cookware). Because PFAS don’t easily break down, they can remain in soil and water for years.

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) is responsible for developing the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. These guidelines provide a framework for ensuring safe and good quality drinking water.

Recent studies have found PFAS in Australian drinking water, prompting investigations and cleanup efforts in affected communities. In June 2025, Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Centre (NHMRC) updated the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines to lower the levels of PFAS for drinking water to be considered safe.

The NHMRC advises that although current exposure levels in most areas are low, efforts should be made to minimise ongoing exposure wherever possible.

Can PFAS be filtered out of water?

Not all water filters are created equally, and most standard filters (including basic jugs or tap attachments) cannot reliably remove PFAS. PFAS are microscopically small and chemically stable, meaning they resist breakdown and are difficult to remove. To effectively reduce these chemicals, you need a PFAS water filter that uses specialised filtration media.

The zazen Alkaline Water System uses a multi-stage filtration process designed specifically to tackle contaminants like PFAS, including:

• The Ceramic Pre-Filter to capture nano/microplastics, rust, sediment and organic matter
• NSF-certified activated carbon to absorb chlorine, PFAS, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Layers of volcanic rock and natural minerals to rebalance and restructure water
• Magnetic and infrared components that mimic water’s natural flow and enhance cellular absorption

The result? Cleaner, structured, mineral-rich water that not only tastes better, but works harder for your body.

There are also other ways to reduce your exposure to PFAS, including:

• Choosing PFAS-free personal care and household products
• Limiting consumption of processed and packaged foods
• Avoiding non-stick cookware made with Teflon
• Staying informed about local water quality reports

The bigger picture: hydration, immunity and whole-body wellness

Filtering PFAS and other contaminants is only one part of the water wellness equation. At zazen, we believe the right water should be not only clean, but life-giving.

Proper hydration plays a crucial role in:

• Flushing toxins – dehydrated cells store toxins, increasing the risk of PFAS and heavy metal buildup
• Supporting kidney and liver function (your body’s natural detoxifiers)
• Aiding circulation and cellular repair
• Regulating energy, mood, and cognitive performance
• Strengthening the immune system by helping flush harmful waste from the body

Our bodies are made up of over 75% water. When it comes to hydrating at a cellular level, it’s much easier for our bodies to absorb structured water that’s naturally rich in essential minerals like sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. That’s why all these minerals are included in the zazen Alkaline Water System, and every element of the system is designed to reflect nature’s own process: flowing, filtering, mineralising, balancing and energising water, just as it’s found in natural springs.

When we support our hydration at a deeper level, we support our body’s ability to thrive, even in a modern world filled with invisible stressors.

A safer, smarter way to hydrate

The reality is, PFAS and other environmental toxins are part of modern life. But that doesn’t mean we’re powerless. Through informed choices, like choosing the right PFAS water filter, we can take meaningful steps to protect our health and the health of our families.

The zazen Alkaline Water System is more than a filter. It’s a daily water wellness ritual. A simple way to nourish your body, restore balance, and reconnect with water as nature intended.

discover the zazen Alkaline Water Filter System.