Sparkling Water and PFAS: Which Brands Are Cleanest in 2025?
Sorting the safest sparkling waters: What you need to know about PFAS risks and the brands that truly deliver transparency.
Sparkling Water and PFAS: Are Your Bubbles Clean?
If you’re a fan of sparkling water, recent findings about PFAS (“forever chemicals”) might have you checking the label twice. Over the past few years, reports have surfaced showing that many popular seltzer and sparkling water brands contain measurable levels of PFAS—persistent chemicals linked to potential health risks. This article compiles the latest research and expert commentary to help you navigate the vast array of bubbly beverages now on the market, and highlights which brands are making efforts to offer the cleanest, safest options.
What Are PFAS and Why Are They in Sparkling Water?
PFAS stands for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Nicknamed “forever chemicals,” PFAS are used in a variety of consumer goods due to their water- and grease-resistant properties. Major sources of environmental PFAS include:
- Non-stick cookware coatings
- Food packaging (fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags)
- Waterproof clothing and gear
- Cosmetics and dental floss
Because PFAS don’t break down naturally, they accumulate in soil, water, and even our bodies. When companies source water from environments or aquifers contaminated with PFAS, these chemicals can end up in bottled, spring, or sparkling water—even after filtration.
Why Are PFAS a Concern?
PFAS have been linked through multiple studies to a range of health issues, including but not limited to:
- Potential impacts on fertility and pregnancy outcomes
- Thyroid hormone disruption
- Increased risk of certain cancers
- Liver damage
- Weakened immune response
The reason scientists are especially wary? PFAS remain in the human body for years, and even low levels of long-term exposure may represent a cumulative health risk. Even small concentrations (measured in parts per trillion, or ppt) are considered relevant for science-based safety advisories.
The Regulatory Gaps: Why Sparkling Water Stays Unregulated
Despite the clear science, regulation around PFAS is uneven. While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began requiring municipal water utilities to filter out certain PFAS as recently as March 2024, there is no federal standard specifically limiting PFAS in bottled or sparkling water.
Activists, scientists, and lawmakers have called for stricter oversight, but progress remains slow. Mark Ruffalo, a prominent advocate for environmental reform, summed up public frustration: “They all game the system in order to make money over people’s health.” Most supermarket shelves remain filled with sparkling water products that may or may not disclose PFAS status, leaving it up to consumers to do the research.
Summary Table: PFAS Levels in Popular Sparkling Water Brands (2020–2025)
| Brand | PFAS Detected (ppt) | Year Tested | Notes/Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Topo Chico | 9.76 (2020), ~4.9 (2021 onward) | 2020–2021 | Filtration upgrades after controversy; still above 1 ppt guideline |
| Polar | 6.41 | 2020 | Consumer Reports; among highest detected |
| Bubly (Blackberry) | 2.24 | 2020 | Levels above many competitors |
| Poland Spring (Zesty Lime) | 1.66 | 2020 | Nestlé claims undetectable PFAS in plain, unflavored offerings |
| Canada Dry (Lemon Lime Seltzer) | 1.24 | 2020 | Consumer Reports finding |
| La Croix | 0.94–1.16 | 2020 | PFOA, 6:2FTS detected |
| Perrier | 0.25–1.1 | 2020 | PFOA, PFBA detected |
| Schweppes | 0.58 | 2020 | Near or below 1 ppt |
| San Pellegrino | 0.31 | 2020 | Among lowest detected |
| Spindrift | 0.19 | 2020 | Among lowest detected |
| Dasani | 0.37 | 2020 | Low PFAS |
| Mountain Valley Sparkling Water | ND (none detected) | 2023–2024 | Proactively reports zero PFAS |
| Sound | ND (none detected) | 2023–2024 | Reports zero PFAS |
| Sparkling Ice | ND (none detected) | 2020 | Black Raspberry flavor tested |
What Do Sparkling Water Brands Say About PFAS?
Many large brands have responded to public concern over PFAS contamination, but their actions vary widely:
- Topo Chico admitted to having high PFAS levels (9.76 ppt in 2020), subsequently upgrading filtration and halving the concentration. However, levels remain higher than the 1 ppt recommended by scientists and consumer advocates.
- Nestlé Waters (Poland Spring, Deer Park, Perrier) claims “undetectable levels” of PFAS in their unflavored bottled water, but flavored varieties showed small amounts.
- Some brands such as Mountain Valley, Sound, and Sparkling Ice proactively publicize their lab results showing zero detectable PFAS.
- Others, including major conglomerates and store brands, often do not disclose PFAS testing results—leaving the about risk unclear.
Which Sparkling Water Brands Are Safest to Drink in 2025?
Based on available lab tests and consumer advocacy data (2020–2025), the following brands are recognized for some of the lowest-to-undetectable PFAS levels in their sparkling water:
- Mountain Valley Sparkling Water
- Sound
- Sparkling Ice (Black Raspberry flavor tested)
- Spindrift
- San Pellegrino
- Dasani
- Schweppes
Brands with the highest detected PFAS—which consumers may wish to avoid or research further—include:
- Topo Chico
- Polar
- Bubly (specific flavors)
Other Health and Environmental Concerns with Sparkling Waters
- Can linings and microplastics: Some aluminum cans may contain BPA-like chemicals. Microplastics are a concern with both cans and bottles.
- Natural flavorings: The term covers a wide range of substances, many undisclosed. The healthiest brands are transparent about their ingredients.
- Recycling and waste: Increased sparkling water consumption adds to can and bottle waste. Choose brands that use recycled materials and support efficient recycling programs.
Bottom line: sparkling water can be a refreshing alternative to sugary sodas—but clean labeling, eco-conscious packaging, and public lab test results matter more than ever.
How to Choose a Safe Sparkling Water
Consumers looking to minimize exposure to PFAS and other contaminants should:
- Look for brands that publish independent lab results confirming zero or very low PFAS.
- Prioritize plain or simple flavored waters with clear ingredient lists.
- Favor glass-bottled options when possible to avoid potential can or plastic contaminants.
- Check for environmental certifications or a demonstrated commitment to sustainable practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are PFAS, and why are they called “forever chemicals”?
A: PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that do not break down in the environment or the human body, hence they are called “forever chemicals.” They are widely used for their water- and grease-resistant properties.
Q: Are there any regulations on PFAS in sparkling water?
A: In the US, there are EPA requirements for filtering PFAS from municipal tap water, but currently no federal regulations set strict limits for PFAS in bottled or sparkling water brands as of 2025.
Q: How can I find out if my favorite sparkling water contains PFAS?
A: Check if the brand publishes independent laboratory results online, or look for third-party consumer reports from organizations such as Consumer Reports or Mamavation.
Q: Is sparkling water safe to drink if it contains low levels of PFAS?
A: Health experts recommend minimizing PFAS exposure as much as possible. Many brands have none or close to zero detectable PFAS, making them a better choice for health and peace of mind.
Q: Do flavored sparkling waters have more PFAS?
A: Some lab tests have found that certain flavored varieties may contain higher PFAS levels, but this isn’t universal. It’s best to consult published lab reports for your specific product.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Settle for Uncertainty
With new brands and endless varieties popping up every season, sparkling water buyers need to stay informed. PFAS contamination is a real, though often invisible, risk—but transparency from manufacturers and vigilant research by consumers can drive companies to do better. Opt for trusted brands with public lab results and low-to-zero PFAS detection, and enjoy your bubbles with greater confidence and health.
