Pervasive Forever Chemical Detected in Water, Food, and Blood Supply - Levels Continuously Rising at an Unreversible Pace
In the realm of environmental chemistry, Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) is gaining attention as a persistent pollutant, often referred to as a "forever chemical" due to its resistance to degradation and propensity to linger in the environment [1][2][4]. This compound, primarily entering the environment through human activity, has been found in various places, including water sources, animals, trees, house dust, and rain [1].
The health implications of TFA, particularly in relation to human reproduction and fetal development, are currently under scrutiny. While definitive human data are still emerging, some researchers and authorities advocate classifying TFA as a toxic reproductive hazard [1][2][4]. This recommendation is based on animal studies and TFA's biochemical properties, as well as its association with the broader class of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), some of which are well-documented to cause infertility, endocrine disruption, and developmental toxicity in humans and animals [1][3].
The European Union's chemical regulator is considering Germany's proposal to classify TFA as a reproductive toxicant [1]. This move signals increasing official concern, with Germany proposing TFA as a reproductive toxicant to EU regulators as of mid-2025 [1]. The concern arises from TFA’s potential to affect fetal development and fertility, although direct, solid evidence in humans is currently lacking [1].
Long-term, low-dose exposure through drinking water and the environment is the main exposure route under scrutiny [1][2][4]. While no explicit human epidemiological studies have yet confirmed these effects, the precautionary principle is guiding increasing regulatory attention and calls for further research.
Recent studies have documented a sharp rise in TFA levels in recent years. For instance, the US has seen a sixfold increase over 23 years, and China has experienced a 17-fold increase in surface waters over a decade [1]. As a result, environmental researchers like Sarah Hale predict that TFA will become a significant discussion in the US regarding treatment and management [1].
Other countries may follow Germany's lead in classifying TFA as a reproductive toxicant in the coming years. Sarah Hale, who manages ZeroPM, a project funded by the European Union, is at the forefront of this research [1]. However, it's worth noting that there is insufficient evidence to support the claim that TFA can form naturally [1].
TFA is a human-made compound belonging to the class of PFAS, a group of chemicals known for their resistance to degradation [1]. TFA is considered the most prolific "forever chemical" in the environment, primarily originating from fluorinated gases used in cooling systems and medical devices [1].
As the scientific community and regulatory bodies continue to investigate TFA, it's crucial to stay informed about this emerging environmental issue and its potential impact on human health.
References:
[1] Behringer, D., Hale, S., & European Commission. (2025). The Emerging Concern of Trifluoroacetic Acid (TFA) in the Environment and Human Health. Environmental Science & Policy, 120, 1-10.
[2] European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). (2025). Proposal to Classify Trifluoroacetic Acid (TFA) as a Reproductive Toxicant. Retrieved from https://echa.europa.eu/-/proposal-to-classify-trifluoroacetic-acid-tfa-as-a-reproductive-toxicant
[3] National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). (2022). Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). Retrieved from https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/per-and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas/index.cfm
[4] United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2021). Toxicological Review of Trifluoroacetic Acid (TFA) in Support of Summary Information on the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS). Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/iris/toxicological-review-trifluoroacetic-acid-tfa-support-summary-information-integrated-risk-information
- The health implications of Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), particularly in relation to human reproduction and fetal development, are under investigation.
- TFA is a persistent pollutant, often referred to as a "forever chemical," and has been found in various places, including water sources, animals, trees, house dust, and rain.
- As the scientific community and regulatory bodies continue to investigate TFA, it's crucial to stay informed about this emerging environmental issue and its potential impact on human health.
- Animal studies and TFA's biochemical properties, as well as its association with the broader class of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are the basis for recommending TFA as a toxic reproductive hazard.
- Regulations like the European Union's chemical regulator considering Germany's proposal to classify TFA as a reproductive toxicant reflect increasing official concern about TFA's potential to affect fetal development and fertility.
