PFAS forever chemicals

The City tests for chemicals in the water. They're known as per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

About PFAS

Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of human-made chemicals.

They're used in many products, including:

  • Nonstick cookware
  • Food packaging
  • Stain-resistant carpets
  • Fire-suppressing foam

Risks of PFAS

PFAS are a concern because they:

  • Do not break down in the environment (they're often called “forever chemicals”)
  • Can move through soils and contaminate drinking water sources
  • Build up in fish and wildlife
  • Can stay in the body for many years. Higher levels of exposure to PFAS may lead to health impacts.

Federal regulations for PFAS (April 2024)

Federal drinking water standards are in place for five PFAS chemicals: PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, HFPO-DA and an index value for four other compounds. The City tests its drinking water for these chemicals multiple times every year. Our most recent testing results are in compliance with the new standards.

We began monitoring for PFAS in 2015. Early tests did not show any PFAS in our water. With the more advanced testing available today, we are able to detect PFAS at even lower levels. We expect to receive additional results in the spring of 2024.

 

Minneapolis PFAS results

You can download a fact sheet about our PFAS results in many languages.
Download fact sheet

Resources

Minnesota Department of Health

Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

PFAS 101

United States Environmental Protection Agency

Final PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation

Contact us

Public Works Water Treatment & Distribution Services

Phone

For water emergencies

612-673-5600

For water quality information

612-661-4999

Address

4300 Marshall St. NE
Fridley, MN 55421

This building is closed to the public.