PFNA (Perfluorononanoic Acid)
A long-chain "forever chemical" found in some food packaging and industrial processes.
Source
Industrial emissions and breakdown of other PFAS compounds.
Health Risk
Linked to liver damage, developmental effects, and immune system impacts.
Filter Tip
A reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter can reduce PFNA levels.
PFNA (perfluorononanoic acid) is a long-chain PFAS "forever chemical" found in drinking water across the United States. It is used in the production of certain plastics and can also form as a breakdown product of other PFAS compounds.
The EPA regulates PFNA under the PFAS Hazard Index with a health-based reference value of 10 parts per trillion (ppt). New Jersey was the first state to set its own limit for PFNA at 13 ppt.
Why Is PFNA Dangerous?
PFNA is a long-chain PFAS with a half-life of about 2-4 years in the human body. Health concerns include:
- Liver toxicity and elevated liver enzymes
- Developmental effects in fetuses and infants
- Immune system suppression
- Thyroid hormone disruption
- Potential carcinogenic effects
Sources of PFNA Contamination
PFNA enters water through industrial emissions, particularly from facilities producing fluoropolymers and fluoroelastomers. It can also form from the environmental breakdown of other PFAS precursors.
How to Remove PFNA From Your Water
- Reverse Osmosis: Removes 90-99% of PFNA
- Granular Activated Carbon: Effective for long-chain PFAS like PFNA
- Ion Exchange: Effective in point-of-use and whole-house systems
PFNA (Perfluorononanoic Acid) Levels in US Cities
Based on verified municipal water quality reports (Consumer Confidence Reports) from 2 cities.
Detected Within Limits (2)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safe level of PFNA in water?
The EPA regulates PFNA under the Hazard Index with a reference value of 10 ppt. New Jersey has its own stricter limit of 13 ppt. There is no known safe level of PFAS exposure.
Where is PFNA most commonly found?
PFNA is found near industrial facilities that manufacture fluoropolymers, in areas with PFAS-contaminated groundwater, and in some municipal water systems. It is often found alongside other PFAS compounds.
Does boiling water remove PFNA?
No. Boiling water does not remove any PFAS chemicals, including PFNA. Use a reverse osmosis or NSF-certified activated carbon filter instead.
Related Contaminants
PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid)
A man-made "forever chemical" historically used in non-stick coatings (Teflon), food packaging, and firefighting foam.
PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate)
A man-made "forever chemical" formerly used in Scotchgard, firefighting foam, and industrial processes.
PFHxS (Perfluorohexane Sulfonate)
A "forever chemical" used as a replacement for PFOS in firefighting foams and industrial applications.
GenX (HFPO-DA)
A replacement chemical for PFOA, marketed as safer but also persistent in the environment.