PFAS in the tap water in Antwerp
The tap water in Antwerp meets the legal standard. Still, some areas have more PFAS than the Belgian target value. Here you can read what that means and what you can do yourself.
See the figures Shop ZeroWaterHow much PFAS is in the tap water in Antwerp?
- The tap water in Antwerp meets the legal standard of 100 ng/l for the sum of 20 PFAS.
- In some parts of Antwerp, the EFSA-4 value reaches 7 ng/l. That is above the target value of 4 ng/l.
- The authorities advise you to keep drinking tap water as normal.
Why Antwerp in particular?
In Antwerp, the highest measured EFSA-4 value across delivery areas is 7 ng/l. The median EFSA-4 value is 3.25 ng/l, so many areas are at or below the target value. The sum of 20 PFAS stays well below the legal limit of 100 ng/l, reaching a maximum of 24.5 ng/l.
Source: VMM – Kwaliteit drinkwater per leveringsgebied 2024, bijlage 2 (maximale en mediane waarde) (31-12-2024). Levels may vary by neighbourhood and by measurement.
What is PFAS?
PFAS is a large group of man-made substances. They are found in many things you use every day.
- Non-stick pans
- Rain jackets and outdoor clothing
- Food packaging
- Cosmetics and firefighting foam
Why is it called a ‘forever chemical’?
- PFAS hardly break down in nature.
- They enter rivers and groundwater through factories and products.
- That water is also used to make drinking water.
- They stay in your body for a long time.
Why PFAS deserves attention
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), many people in Europe take in more PFAS than is good for their health. This comes mainly from food, but also from drinking water.
It builds up
Your body clears PFAS only slowly. Small amounts add up over the years.
Effect on your immune system
According to EFSA, even small amounts of PFAS can make your immune system work less well.
The target value is stricter than the law
The target value is 4 nanograms per litre. The law is less strict. Below you can read the difference.
Law and target value: what's the difference?
There are two numbers you may read about. They don't measure exactly the same thing, but this is how it works:
- The law (EU, since 12 January 2026): a maximum of 100 nanograms per litre for 20 PFAS combined.
- The target value in Belgium: 4 nanograms per litre for 4 PFAS combined (PFOA, PFOS, PFNA and PFHxS). According to EFSA, these four PFAS matter most for your health.
The target value is stricter because it is based on the latest scientific advice from EFSA.
Good to know
- The authorities advise people to keep drinking tap water.
- PFAS levels differ per supply area, depending on the source of the drinking water.
- Boiling does not remove PFAS from your water.
ZeroWater filters PFAS
ZeroWater filters are certified to reduce PFOA and PFOS, the two best-known PFAS. A ZeroWater jug is an easy way to take extra care of your drinking water at home.
less PFAS in your water
This percentage applies to PFOA and PFOS, the two best-known and most studied PFAS. The ZeroWater 5-stage filter has been tested for these to the NSF/ANSI 53 standard and certified by the independent institute IAPMO. View the certificate.
Tested, certified
Not a promise, but an independently tested result. Tested with far more PFOA and PFOS than is found in Belgian tap water.
More than just PFAS
The filter is also certified for lead, chromium-6, mercury and chlorine. That makes your water taste purer too.
See it for yourself 000 PPM
Every jug comes with a TDS meter. It shows how pure your water is. Does it show 006? Then it's time for a new filter.
Start filtering right away
Choose the jug that suits your household. A filter is included, so you can filter your first jug of tap water straight away.
1.7 litresZeroWater 1.7 litre jug
Compact and light. Fits in most fridge doors. Handy for 1 or 2 people.
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4.7 litresZeroWater 4.7 litre jug
More water in one go. For families who drink a lot and want to refill less often.
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5.4 litresZeroWater 5.4 litre dispenser
With a tap. Put it in the fridge or on the counter and pour your water whenever you like.
Add to cartView product →Questions about PFAS in Antwerp
Can I still drink the tap water in Antwerp?
Yes. The authorities advise you to keep drinking tap water. The water meets the legal standard. Some areas in Antwerp have an EFSA-4 value above the target value of 4 ng/l, but this does not mean the water is not allowed. The target value is a guide, not a legal limit.
What is the PFAS level in Antwerp tap water?
The highest EFSA-4 value measured in Antwerp is 7 ng/l. The median value is 3.25 ng/l. The sum of 20 PFAS reaches a maximum of 24.5 ng/l. That is well below the legal limit of 100 ng/l.
Does ZeroWater filter all PFAS?
The honest answer: ZeroWater is certified for PFOA and PFOS, the two best-known PFAS. There are thousands of types of PFAS. We have no certificate for the other types, so we don't make any promises about them.
Does the TDS meter show how much PFAS is in my water?
No. The meter measures dissolved solids such as limescale and metals. PFAS are present in such tiny amounts that a TDS meter can't measure them. The meter does help you see when your filter is used up: when it shows 006, replace your filter.
Does boiling or bottled water help?
Boiling does not remove PFAS from water. Bottled water is not a real solution either: it is expensive and creates a lot of plastic waste. A filter on your regular tap water is a simpler alternative.
Where does PFAS in drinking water come from?
PFAS end up in the environment through factories, firefighting foam and products. Through rivers and soil, they reach the water used to make drinking water. That is why drinking water made from river water often contains more PFAS than drinking water made from groundwater.
How often should I replace the filter?
That depends on your tap water. The harder your water, the faster the filter fills up. Test your water with the TDS meter: when it shows 006, it's time for a new filter.
Know what you drink
Good tap water, with a little extra care for you and your family in Antwerp.
Shop ZeroWater Replacement filters- EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) – PFAS in food, scientific opinion 2020. efsa.europa.eu
- EU Drinking Water Directive 2020/2184 (PFAS standard in force since 12 January 2026). eur-lex.europa.eu
- VMM – Kwaliteit drinkwater per leveringsgebied 2024, bijlage 2 (maximale en mediane waarde) View the source
- ZeroWater Performance Data Sheet, IAPMO certification to NSF/ANSI 53 and 42. View PDF
ZeroWater is certified for the reduction of PFOA and PFOS. Results were achieved under laboratory conditions; actual results may vary.