Sparkling Water PFAS Levels: Ranked (Lowest First)
Based on the most-cited independent testing. Levels are total PFAS in parts per trillion (ppt); lower is better. The EPA’s enforceable limit for certain PFAS in drinking water is 4 ppt.
| Brand | PFAS (ppt) | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Spindrift | 0.19 | Excellent |
| S.Pellegrino | 0.31 | Excellent |
| Perrier | 1.10 | Very good |
| LaCroix | 1.16 | Very good |
| bubly | 2.24 | Good |
| Topo Chico (current) | ~3.9 | Below EPA limit |
| Polar | 6.41 | Above EPA limit |
| Topo Chico (2020, pre-upgrade) | 9.76 | Historical high |
Values reflect widely cited independent testing. Brand formulations change over time — treat this as directional, not a live measurement of every batch.
Why PFAS in Sparkling Water Happens
PFAS enters sparkling water through the source water, not the carbonation. Naturally sourced mineral waters (Perrier, S.Pellegrino, Topo Chico) reflect whatever is in their spring; canned seltzers reflect the municipal or purified water they start from. That’s why levels vary so much — and why the same brand can improve dramatically after upgrading its filtration, as Topo Chico did.
How to Eliminate PFAS Entirely
No canned sparkling water is guaranteed PFAS-free forever. The only way to be certain is to make your own from filtered water: run tap water through a certified reverse-osmosis system (which removes 94–99% of PFAS), then carbonate it. Over a year this is cheaper than buying cans, and you control exactly what’s in it.
Want zero PFAS, guaranteed?
A certified reverse-osmosis filter removes 94–99% of PFAS for about $0.05 per liter. See our tested picks for the best under-sink filters that remove PFAS and the best reverse osmosis systems, then carbonate the filtered water yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which sparkling water has the lowest PFAS?
In independent testing, Spindrift (0.19 ppt), S.Pellegrino (0.31 ppt), and Perrier (1.10 ppt) test lowest for PFAS. These are the cleanest widely available options.
Does Topo Chico still have PFAS?
Topo Chico’s PFAS dropped from about 9.76 ppt in 2020 to roughly 3.9 ppt after Coca-Cola upgraded its filtration — now below the EPA’s 4 ppt limit. It’s much improved but not zero.
Is PFAS in sparkling water dangerous?
At the low levels found in most sparkling waters, occasional drinking poses minimal risk. Concern grows with heavy daily consumption of higher-PFAS brands over years. Choosing a low-PFAS brand or filtering your own water reduces exposure.
How do I remove PFAS from water at home?
A certified reverse-osmosis system removes 94–99% of PFAS. Under-sink RO units are the most reliable option for drinking and for making your own sparkling water.
The Bottom Line
If PFAS is your concern, Spindrift, S.Pellegrino, and Perrier test lowest among popular sparkling waters. Topo Chico has improved dramatically but isn’t zero, and Polar tests highest of the common brands. For a guaranteed PFAS-free fizzy drink, make your own from reverse-osmosis-filtered water — cleaner, cheaper over time, and fully in your control.
