PFAS in Bottled Water Lawsuit | 2024 Latest Updates

PFAS in Bottled Water Lawsuit Overview

PFAS lawsuits involve consumers who have been exposed to harmful “forever chemicals” in bottled water products. Primary allegations target bottled water manufacturers for failure to disclose PFAS contamination and adequately test their products. Consumer Reports testing revealed that multiple popular bottled water brands contained detectable levels of PFAS, with some exceeding safety thresholds. The EPA has issued health advisories recommending PFAS levels not exceed 4 parts per trillion (ppt) in drinking water.

Related Article: PFAS Exposure Lawsuit Update

Latest PFAS in Bottled Water Lawsuit Updates

April 10, 2024 – The EPA established a national drinking water standard for PFAS chemicals, replacing the 2016 health advisory level of 70 ppt with enforceable MCLs, including 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS, marking a significant tightening of requirements.

June 2024 – Consumers have filed multiple lawsuits against bottled water companies, alleging PFAS contamination in popular brands such as VOSS and Aquafina. The legal claims argue that these brands misled consumers by marketing their products as pure and safe while containing harmful levels of “forever chemicals.” These lawsuits highlight growing concerns over PFAS exposure and its potential health risks, prompting calls for stricter industry regulation [1].

Related Articles: PFAS Products to Watch Out

FDA Reports and Statistics

Independent testing, including by Consumer Reports, has revealed:

• Multiple brands of bottled water contain measurable levels of PFAS, according to independent testing
• Consumer Reports tested 47 bottled water brands (12 carbonated and 35 non-carbonated) for PFAS contamination
• Carbonated water brands were more likely to contain elevated PFAS levels
• 9 brands showed PFAS levels exceeding 1 ppt, with the highest at 9.76 ppt

PFAS Injuries & Side Effects

PFAS exposure through contaminated bottled water has been linked to numerous serious health conditions:

• Cancer Development: Kidney, testicular, and other forms of cancer
• Hormonal Disruption: Thyroid dysfunction and reproductive issues
• Immune System Damage: Weakened immune response and increased susceptibility to disease
• Liver Damage: Elevated liver enzymes and potential organ dysfunction
• Developmental Issues: Growth and learning delays in children

To date, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not established a safe drinking water standard.

Do You Qualify for a PFAS in Bottled Water Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a PFAS in bottled water lawsuit if:

• You regularly consumed bottled water brands identified as containing PFAS
• You experienced serious health issues potentially linked to PFAS exposure
• Your medical conditions required treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide documentation of both your bottled water consumption and medical history

Evidence Required for a PFAS in Bottled Water Lawsuit

To strengthen your PFAS lawsuit, you’ll need to provide:

• Medical records documenting your condition and treatment
• Proof of purchase of the contaminated bottled water (receipts, credit card statements)
• Documentation of regular consumption (frequency and duration)
• Evidence linking your specific health issues to PFAS exposure

Damages You Can Recover

A successful PFAS in bottled water lawsuit may provide compensation for:

• Medical expenses for treatment of PFAS-related conditions
• Lost wages due to illness and treatment
• Pain and suffering resulting from your health issues
• Ongoing medical monitoring for potential future complications
• Punitive damages against negligent manufacturers

PFAS in Bottled Water Recall Information

While no official recalls have been issued specifically for PFAS in bottled water as of March 20, 2025, consumer advocacy groups have called for:

• Stricter testing requirements for all bottled water products
• Mandatory disclosure of PFAS levels on product labels
• Removal of products exceeding advocated safety thresholds (e.g., 1 ppt as per Consumer Reports) from store shelves

Statute of Limitations for PFAS in Bottled Water Lawsuits

The time limit to file a PFAS lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from the date you discovered or should have discovered your injury. Because PFAS-related health issues may develop slowly over time, the “discovery rule” may extend your filing deadline.

Important: Consultation with an attorney is essential to determine the specific deadline that applies to your case.

Related Articles:

• What is a Safe Level of PFAS?
• Does Boiling Water Get Rid of PFAS?
• Can PFAS Be Removed From the Body?

See all related product liability lawsuits our lawyers covered so far.

FAQs

1. What are PFAS and why are they dangerous?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals that persist in the environment and human body, earning them the name “forever chemicals.” They’ve been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and immune system damage even at very low exposure levels.

2. Which bottled water brands are safest?

According to testing, brands including Arrowhead Natural Spring Water, Boxed Water Is Better, Good & Gather (Target) Purified Drinking Water, and several others showed no detectable levels of PFAS.

3. How can I know if my bottled water contains PFAS?

Check the brand against published test results from Consumer Reports or the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services. You can also contact the manufacturer directly for their latest water quality reports.

4. What PFAS level is considered safe in drinking water?

The EPA recommends PFAS levels not exceed 4 parts per trillion (ppt), though some health advocates argue even lower levels are necessary for long-term safety.

5. Can water filtration systems remove PFAS?

Yes, high-quality activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems can significantly reduce PFAS levels in water. Look for filters specifically certified for PFAS removal.

6. How long do I have to file a PFAS lawsuit?

The statute of limitations varies by state but generally ranges from 1-6 years from when you discovered your injury. Consult with an attorney immediately to preserve your legal rights.

7. What compensation might I receive from a PFAS lawsuit?

Compensation may include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages against manufacturers who failed to ensure product safety.

8. Is tap water safer than bottled water regarding PFAS?

Not necessarily. Both tap and bottled water can contain PFAS. The safety depends on the specific water source, treatment methods, and regulatory oversight.

9. How can I prove my health condition is related to PFAS exposure?

Medical documentation, expert testimony, and scientific evidence establishing causation between PFAS exposure and your specific condition will be crucial to your case.

10. Are class action lawsuits available for PFAS contamination?

Yes, several class action lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers of PFAS-contaminated products, including bottled water companies in some jurisdictions.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for PFAS contamination in bottled water. Most states only allow claims within 1-6 years from the date of injury discovery, and this window may be closing rapidly.

Schmidt & Clark, LLP  include:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for representation
• Payment only if we win your case
• Experienced attorneys specializing in environmental contamination lawsuits

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek justice and compensation for PFAS-related injuries.

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Reference:

[1]https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2024/06/21/nx-s1-5013957/pfas-forever-chemicals-drinking-water-rule-lawsuits