TFA [trifluoroacetic acid] is what is known as a ‘forever chemical.’ This means that it breaks down very slowly which could have an impact on human reproduction.
‘This molecule seems to be everywhere’, Alistair Boxall, professor of Environmental Science at the University of York stated to the BBC.” We will all be drinking water containing TFA every day – so we’ll be exposed throughout our lifetime. It’s that low level, long-term exposure that is the big concern”
Researchers from York University analysed samples from 32 rivers in all four of the UK’s four nations and found traces of TFA at 98% of the test locations
Recent studies in the EU found TFA to be widespread, including in wine and food, human blood and breast milk
[TFA forms when synthetic chemicals from other “forever chemicals” such as those found in pesticides and refrigerants are partially broken down.]BBC News – 16/06/2025
