Does coffee contain PFAS? A Closer Look at 'Forever Chemicals' in Your Morning Brew

October 3, 2025 •

2 min read

Recent research from Dartmouth College found a link between coffee consumption and higher levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the human body, raising concerns for many daily coffee drinkers. As these persistent “forever chemicals” accumulate in the environment and the food chain, it is critical to understand if and does coffee contain PFAS, and if so, how to mitigate the risk.

Quick Summary

Several components of coffee production and consumption, including contaminated filters, packaging, brewing water, and beans, can introduce PFAS into your daily cup. This guide details the contamination pathways and provides practical strategies to reduce your exposure to these persistent chemicals.

Key Points

PFAS Presence: Recent studies have found a link between regular coffee consumption and higher PFAS levels in the body, suggesting that coffee can be a source of dietary exposure.
Source Contamination: PFAS can be introduced to coffee via contaminated water used for brewing, filters, and food packaging like takeaway cups and coffee bags.
Health Concerns: Exposure to certain PFAS is associated with potential health issues, including altered cholesterol levels, immune system response, and increased cancer risk.
Mitigation Strategies: You can reduce your PFAS intake by using metal or certified PFAS-free filters, brewing at home with filtered water, and opting for reusable mugs instead of disposable cups.
Regulating Exposure: While regulations are tightening, PFAS remain pervasive in the environment, making individual consumer choices an important part of reducing exposure.
Varied Diet: Eating a diverse diet rich in fresh produce can be protective, and avoiding an over-reliance on any single food item can help manage overall contaminant exposure.

The Surprising Sources of PFAS in Coffee

Experts and recent studies indicate that PFAS can enter your coffee through several pathways.

Contamination Pathways in Your Coffee Cup

Coffee Filters: Paper filters can be a source if treated with PFAS, though some brands are now fluorine-free.
Packaging: Coffee bags often use PFAS linings to maintain freshness, which can transfer to the beans.
Disposable Coffee Cups: The PFAS lining in disposable cups is a major source for those who get coffee to go.
Water Contamination: Brewing water can contain PFAS depending on the local water source.
Contaminated Beans: Beans may absorb PFAS from polluted soil or water during growth.

The Dartmouth Study: Linking Coffee to PFAS Levels

A 2024 Dartmouth College study analyzing samples from pregnant women found a link between consuming certain foods, including coffee, and higher PFAS levels in blood and breast milk. This research highlighted coffee as a potential dietary PFAS source, suggesting these chemicals are widespread in our food.

Health Implications of PFAS Exposure

PFAS accumulation in the environment and body is a concern due to potential health effects linked to high exposure levels. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, health outcomes may include reproductive and developmental issues, increased cancer risk, reduced immune function, hormonal interference, and increased cholesterol.

Reducing PFAS Exposure in Your Coffee

Minimizing PFAS from coffee is possible through several steps:

Use Stainless Steel Filters: Avoid potential leaching from paper filters by using reusable stainless steel or non-PFAS-treated options.
Choose PFAS-Free Packaging: Look for brands using non-PFAS or sustainably packaged coffee.
Brew at Home: Using reusable containers at home or for takeaway prevents exposure from disposable cups.
Filter Your Water: High-quality filters, like reverse osmosis, can reduce PFAS in brewing water.
Buy Organic and Varied: A diet with varied foods and high in produce is linked to lower PFAS levels.

Comparison of Coffee Preparation Methods and PFAS Risk

Consider the PFAS risk associated with different coffee preparation methods:


Feature	Conventional Takeaway Coffee	Home Brew (Paper Filters)	Home Brew (Metal Filter & Reusable Mug)
Primary PFAS Sources	Lined cup, potentially contaminated brewing water	Filters, brewing water, packaging	Brewing water, packaging (can be mitigated)
Contamination Risk	High	Moderate	Low
Portability	High	Low	High
Convenience	High	Low	Medium (requires cleaning)
Mitigation Options	None for single-use cups; bring reusable cup	Use certified PFAS-free filters	Use certified PFAS-free filters (or none) and filter water

Conclusion

Evidence suggests coffee can contain PFAS due to contamination at various stages. While the exact health risks from coffee alone are still being studied, being mindful of brewing methods and packaging can help reduce exposure. Simple changes like using reusable containers, filtering water, and choosing sustainably packaged coffee are effective steps towards a healthier cup.

For further information on PFAS health effects and regulations, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency website is an authoritative resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

PFAS can be found in various elements related to coffee, including the lining of disposable paper cups, certain coffee filters, the packaging of coffee beans, and the brewing water itself if it is from a contaminated source.

Yes, a 2024 study from Dartmouth College linked higher coffee consumption, along with eggs and white rice, to elevated PFAS concentrations in the blood and breast milk of pregnant women.

To avoid PFAS from paper filters, you can use certified PFAS-free filters. Alternatively, use a reusable filter made from stainless steel or a brewing method like a French press or reusable pods that do not require paper filters.

Yes, disposable paper coffee cups are typically lined with PFAS to make them water-resistant and prevent leaks. This is a significant potential source of exposure for frequent takeaway coffee drinkers.

The simplest and most effective way is to use a reusable travel mug for your takeaway coffee instead of accepting a single-use disposable cup. Additionally, brewing at home with filtered water can help.

While organic coffee may reduce exposure to pesticides and other chemicals used in farming, it does not guarantee freedom from PFAS contamination. PFAS can enter the product from water, soil, packaging, and filters, independent of organic status.

Using a high-quality water filter, especially a reverse osmosis system, can be highly effective at removing PFAS from your brewing water. Standard carbon filters are less effective, especially against short-chain PFAS.