When you think of Thanksgiving, you probably picture turkey, mashed potatoes, and family gathered around the table — not “forever chemicals.”
But as more research emerges about PFAS contamination in tap water, families across the country are starting to realize that what’s in their water may be affecting what’s on their plates.
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have earned the nickname “forever chemicals” because they don’t easily break down in the environment — or in our bodies. They’ve been found in drinking water, soil, food packaging, and even cookware. And while they might be invisible, their impact is far from small.
With 82% of people concerned about PFAS and more than half now aware of what they are, this holiday season is the perfect time to talk about how to keep these unwanted guests out of your kitchen — and your body.
What Exactly Are PFAS — and Why Are They a Problem?
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals developed in the 1940s for their resistance to water, heat, and stains. They’re used in everything from nonstick pans and food wrappers to carpets and cleaning products. Unfortunately, their durability is also what makes them a problem — once released, they can linger in the environment indefinitely.
Studies have linked long-term PFAS exposure to health risks such as:
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Hormone disruption
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Immune system suppression
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Developmental issues in children
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Increased cholesterol levels
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Certain cancers
Even at very low concentrations, PFAS can build up in the body over time. That’s why the EPA has called for stricter limits in drinking water — and why families are paying more attention to how they can reduce exposure at home.
How PFAS End Up in Your Water — and Eventually, Your Meals
PFAS can enter the water supply through manufacturing runoff, wastewater, or even firefighting foams used at airports and military bases. Once in the environment, they can seep into groundwater and municipal water systems — meaning even treated tap water isn’t always safe from contamination.
That means every time you rinse produce, boil pasta, or make a pot of coffee, trace amounts of PFAS could be making their way into your food. It’s an unsettling thought, especially during the holidays when families are focused on gathering, cooking, and creating memories — not worrying about what’s hiding in their water.
Drinking Water Filtration Systems: Your First Line of Defense
The good news? You can significantly reduce your exposure to PFAS with the right drinking water filtration system.
Not all filters are created equal — many standard carbon filters can improve taste but don’t remove PFAS effectively. High-quality systems, like Reverse Osmosis (RO) filtration, are designed to target and reduce contaminants that other filters can’t.
Here’s why more families are making the switch:
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Removes PFAS, microplastics, and other emerging contaminants
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Improves taste and odor for cleaner, fresher water
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Reduces dependency on bottled water, which often contains even higher levels of microplastics
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Supports family health through every glass, meal, and recipe
A drinking water filtration system provides confidence in every sip and every simmered sauce — something you can truly be thankful for this season.
What About Water Softeners?
While water softeners don’t specifically remove PFAS, they do play an important role in overall water quality. By reducing hardness minerals like calcium and magnesium, softeners prevent scale buildup in pipes and appliances — protecting your RO system and keeping it running efficiently.
When paired together, a drinking water filtration system and water softener create a comprehensive water quality solution:
Together, they ensure that everything from the water you drink to the water you cook with is working in your favor — not against you.
PFAS Awareness Is Growing — and So Is Action
According to recent insights:
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54% of people are now aware of PFAS.
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82% are concerned about their presence in tap water.
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11% say PFAS are their #1 water quality concern.
As awareness grows, so does the desire for reliable, long-term solutions. Homeowners are increasingly turning to certified drinking water systems to protect their families, not just during the holidays, but year-round.
A Cleaner Kind of Thanksgiving
As you prep your Thanksgiving menu, take a moment to think about what’s behind every dish:
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The water that rinses your vegetables
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The water that boils your potatoes
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The water that brews your coffee
Installing a drinking water filtration system ensures that every ingredient you use is as pure as possible — no hidden chemicals, no aftertaste, and no worries. Because when it comes to your family’s health, even small choices can make a big difference.
This Thanksgiving, give your family the gift of confidence in every glass and every bite.
The Bottom Line
PFAS may be called “forever chemicals,” but their impact on your home doesn’t have to be permanent.
With the right drinking water filtration system, you can keep these invisible contaminants off your table and out of your body — protecting your family’s health, your peace of mind, and the joy of sharing a meal together.
At Dupure, we believe that safe, clean water is something to be thankful for — this holiday season and every season.
What's In Your Water?
Find out how clean your water is (or isn’t) with our Free Water Assessment, and learn more about the Dupure water filtration, conditioning and softening systems that will help you make your house a safer, healthier home.
