EU Implements Monitoring of PFAS Contamination in Drinking Water

On the 12th of January 2026, the European Union enforced the immediate EU-wide monitoring of PFAS in drinking water. The announcement and enforcement follow an update to the EU Drinking Water Directive.

PFAS (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are called forever chemicals due to their persistent and stable nature which makes them decomposition resistant. PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in making industrial and consumer products. Due to their nature, PFAS build up in the environment and body, and are linked to health risks like cancer, immune dysfunction, and hormonal disruption. 

PFAS monitoring across Europe is a key step towards contamination prevention and exposure mitigation. In practice this means: 

• EU countries must monitor PFAS and reduce levels where limits are exceeded
• Clear and transparent communication to the public about water quality
• Comparable data to support targeted action across Europe 

EU PFAS Parameters 

The directive covers both PFAS total (over 10,000 PFAS compounds) and Sum of 20 specific PFAS substances. 

• PFAS total - limit value 0.5 μg/L
• Sum of 20 PFAS - limit value 0.1 μg/L

The European Environment Agency will play the critical role of collecting data from EU member states, as well as data analysis and reporting. This will enable informed action and decision making. Mandatory corrective action includes: 

• Shutting down contaminated water sources like wells, etc
• Introducing advanced PFAS removal treatment steps
• Temporarily restricting use of affected water supplies 

The EU recognizes PFAS pollution as a major emerging public health concern. Cotecna PFAS testing services can help support consistent monitoring. Our services are in line with the EU PFAS 2024 technical guidelines detailing: 

• Accepted analytical methods
• How to accurately measure PFAS Total and PFAS Sum
• Requirements for comparability across all member states. 

In Netherlands, for instance, Cotecna Group laboratory, NofaLab, offers public access to PFAS testing kits through its website. After launching the service, PFAS test kit demand surged to over a thousand per week. Demonstrating growing public awareness and concern about PFAS exposure. Other Cotecna groups with PFAS testing capabilities are

• Neotron (Italy)
• Wimpey Laboratories (UAE)
• Geo-Chem (India) 

To learn more about Cotecna PFAS testing services, visit our dedicated web page or contact us. 

About Cotecna

For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.

About NofaLab

NofaLab provides reliable laboratory testing and analytical services, specializing in food, feed, and industrial applications. With ISO 17025 accreditation (L440), NofaLab delivers accurate, science-based results that support sustainability, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. Through expert knowledge and advanced technology, NofaLab helps clients optimize processes, enhance productivity, and meet international quality and safety standards.

About Neotron

Neotron is a premier European provider of analytical services, specializing in food, feed, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. With a focus on precise testing, sensory analysis, and R&D, Neotron ensures compliance with the highest global standards. As an accredited lab Neotron delivers innovative, tailored solutions to meet the diverse product development and quality control needs of its clients.

About Wimpey Laboratories

Wimpey Laboratories is a leading independent provider of ISO-accredited testing and calibration services, backed by over 20 years of expertise. Leveraging advanced technology, it delivers accurate, reliable solutions that ensure safety, compliance, and customer satisfaction. Serving more than 9,500 clients across 49+ countries, Wimpey offers over 5,500 accredited services tailored to diverse industry needs.

About GeoChem India 

Geochem India is one of the largest independent laboratories in India that offers comprehensive testing, inspection, and certification services across sectors such as food safety, consumer goods, and seafood quality. Recently, it expanded its capabilities with a new food testing laboratory in Unjha, Gujarat, further strengthening its service portfolio Geochem India brings deep local insight and international trust to clients.