What are PFAS?

PFAS, or poly/perfluoroalkyl substances, commonly referred to as forever chemicals, are a group of compounds with similar chemical structures and properties. There are possibly over 10,000 PFAS formulas in existence. PFAS are commonly referred to as "forever chemicals" because they are almost impossible to degrade.

What are PFAS used for?

PFAS are used to make water or stain resistant clothing, and is a common additive in non-stick pans. PFAS are also popularly used in fire fighting foams, as they make great fire suppressants due to their high heat resistance; needing to be heated to over 1,000 degrees Celsius before degrading.

Where are PFAS found?

PFAS have been found everywhere from the Arctic ice to human blood. PFAS can be found in the air, water, soil or within living organisms. The most common locations for PFAS in water are military sites, airports, landfills and manufacturing sites. 

Are PFAS harmful?

The public health risks of all PFAS compounds are largely unknown. However, there is evidence that PFAS can lead to higher risks of cancer, liver damage, pregnancy complications, increased cholesterol, as well as other health concerns. 

PFAS and Brooklyn Center water

As part of regular drinking water monitoring. Brooklyn Center has tested water leaving the city water treatment plant. As shown in the graphs below, the testing results show Brooklyn Center drinking water meets all current federal standards for PFAS in drinking water. The City will continue to conduct quarterly testing of the drinking water and update these results as testing is completed.

Water treatment plant PFOS & PFOA testing results: Comparison to EPA limit

When multiple PFAS compounds are present, the EPA has advised that an additive effect can happen. This means if two PFAS compounds are present, both can be below the health based guidance, but still potentially be harmful. To account for this, the EPA has created a measure called a Health Based Index. To learn about this health based index, see the EPA guidance here.

Water treatment plant testing results: Comparison to EPA Health Index limit

The City will continue to conduct quarterly testing of the drinking water and update these results as testing is completed. You can see the full results below.

BC PFAS full results (PDF)

For more information on what these results mean or PFAS in general, visit the Minnesota Department of Health website here.