PFUnA

What is PFUnA?

Perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnA) 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. PFUnA is a longer-chain PFAS, meaning it has 11 carbon atoms in its structure, which affects how it behaves in the body and environment. Like other PFAS, it does not occur naturally and is entirely a product of industrial manufacturing.

Where does it come from?

PFUnA has been used in industrial manufacturing processes and can be found in some consumer products, including stain-resistant coatings on fabrics and carpets, water-repellent clothing, and certain food packaging materials. It can also be released into the environment through industrial wastewater and the breakdown of other related PFAS compounds. Contamination of drinking water and soil near industrial sites is one of the main ways people may be exposed.

Health concerns

Research on PFUnA's health effects in humans is limited compared to more widely studied PFAS like PFOA or PFOS. Some animal studies have associated PFUnA with effects on the liver, thyroid, and immune system, but strong human evidence is not yet established. Because evidence is still developing, anyone with specific health concerns should consult a healthcare provider.

EPA standard

No federal maximum contaminant level (MCL) — the legal limit for a chemical in public drinking water — has been established for PFUnA by the EPA. Without an MCL, public water systems are not required to test for or remove it. This means there is currently no regulatory safety threshold to protect against this specific compound in tap water.

What you can do

If you are concerned about PFUnA in your water, a reverse osmosis filter or a granular activated carbon filter are both considered effective options for reducing PFAS compounds in drinking water, according to EPA guidance. Ion exchange filters may also help reduce PFAS levels. Remember that boiling water does not remove PFAS — it can actually concentrate them.