NFDHA

What is NFDHA?

Nonafluoro-3,6-dioxaheptanoic acid, or NFDHA, is a man-made chemical that belongs to the PFAS family, a group of thousands of synthetic chemicals often called "forever chemicals" because they break down very slowly in the environment and in the human body. NFDHA is classified as a short-chain ether PFAS, meaning it has a relatively small molecular structure with oxygen atoms built into its chain. Like other PFAS compounds, it is built around extremely strong carbon-fluorine bonds that make it very hard to destroy.

Where does it come from?

NFDHA is used in industrial processes and can be found in certain consumer products. It may appear in products that use fluorinated coatings, such as stain-resistant fabrics, water-repellent clothing, and specialty industrial materials. It can enter the environment through manufacturing waste, industrial discharge, and the breakdown of related PFAS compounds already present in products or soil.

Health concerns

Research on NFDHA specifically is very limited, and scientists are still working to understand its effects on human health. Because it belongs to the broader PFAS family, researchers are studying whether it may share some of the concerns associated with other PFAS compounds in studies, such as effects on the immune system, thyroid function, and liver health. However, there is not yet strong human evidence directly linking NFDHA to specific health outcomes. If you have health-related questions, consult a healthcare provider.

EPA standard

The EPA has not established a Maximum Contaminant Level, or MCL, for NFDHA in drinking water. An MCL is the legal limit of a contaminant allowed in public water supplies. Without a federal limit, water utilities are not required to test for or remove NFDHA.

What you can do

If you are concerned about NFDHA in your water, a reverse osmosis filter is your most effective option, as research studies support its ability to reduce many PFAS compounds including short-chain types. Granular activated carbon filters may offer some reduction but are generally less effective against short-chain PFAS like NFDHA. Remember that boiling water does not remove PFAS — it can actually concentrate them.