PFAS testing

How it affects / Why you need to eliminate it?

PFAS are man-made chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products worldwide since the 1940s. They have been used to make nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain resistant fabrics and carpets, some cosmetics, some firefighting foams, and products that resist grease, water, and oil. During production and use, PFAS can migrate into the soil, water, and air. Most PFAS (including PFOA and PFOS) do not break down, so they remain in the environment.

All PFASs are highly persistent in the environment. In fact, they are known to persist in the environment longer than any other man-made substance. As a consequence of this persistence, as long as PFASs continue to be released to the environment, humans will be exposed to ever greater concentrations of PFASs. Even if all release of PFASs would cease tomorrow, they would continue to be present in the environment, and humans, for generations to come. Their release and mobility in water and air causes contamination to ground water and drinking water, which is difficult and costly to avoid. Certain PFASs are known to accumulate in living things and cause toxic effects. Certain PFASs are toxic for reproduction and can harm the development of fetuses. Several PFASs may cause cancer in humans. Some PFASs are also suspected of interfering with the human endocrine (hormonal) system.

What we can do / How we can support you?

Eurofins understands the need to identify and monitor for emerging contaminants such as PFAS. With more than 20 years of experience with PFAS analysis, we are able to provide a high-quality and cost-effective solution to meet your PFAS testing needs. Eurofins is the only commercial environmental laboratory to have the capability of reporting up to 75 PFAS target analytes, 70 from a single injection in potable and non-potable water. This expansive analyte list is the most comprehensive in the nation. 

Analyzed parameters and limitation

1. Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS)
2. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
3. Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA)
4. Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS)

According to EU 2022/1431, sample analysis should test for the presence in food of these four PFASs: These PFASs are found mainly in food contamination.

Eurofins offer highly sensitive methods, low reporting limits, and compliance with method protocols meeting regulations over the duration of the client program.

Contact

For more detailed information about the Eurofins pesticide testing services please contact Eurofins Dr Specht or your local Eurofins laboratory