PFAS in the tap water in Florence
The tap water in Florence meets the legal standard for PFAS. The level reported is 10 ng/l, which is below the Ministero della Salute advisory value. Here you can read what this means for you.
See the figures Shop ZeroWaterHow much PFAS is in the tap water in Florence?
- The tap water in Florence meets the legal standard set by the Ministero della Salute.
- At 10 ng/l, the PFAS level is below the Ministero della Salute advisory value.
- The Ministero della Salute advises you to keep drinking tap water as normal.
Why Florence in particular?
A value of 10 ng/l has been reported for Florence tap water. We don't have detailed local facts for this area yet. We're working on getting more information. Your water supplier can tell you the latest results for your area.
* Sum of 4 PFAS (PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS). Source: Acqua potabile inquinata: "La Toscana è tra le peggiori d'Italia". Città per città, la mappa di Greenpeace (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.
A strict limit
Since July 2026, Italy has a limit of 20 nanograms per litre for 4 PFAS combined. Below you can read more.
Two limits: what's the difference?
Italian law has two PFAS limits for tap water:
- Since January 2026: a maximum of 100 nanograms per litre for the sum of PFAS, as in the EU directive.
- Since 13 July 2026: also a maximum of 20 nanograms per litre for 4 PFAS combined (PFOA, PFOS, PFNA and PFHxS).
The second limit is stricter because it looks at the four PFAS that have been studied most and that EFSA considers most important for your health.
Good to know
- Tap water must meet the legal PFAS limits. Your water company can tell you the latest results for your area.
- 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 is certified to reduce PFOA and PFOS, the two best-known PFAS, in your drinking water. It is a simple step you can take at home in Florence.
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 Italian 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.
Add to cartView product →
4.7 litresZeroWater 4.7 litre jug
More water in one go. For families who drink a lot and want to refill less often.
Add to cartView product →
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 Florence
Can I still drink the tap water in Florence?
Yes. The tap water in Florence meets the legal standard. The reported level is 10 ng/l, which is well below the advisory value of 100 ng/l for the sum of PFAS. Tap water must meet the legal PFAS limit, and your water supplier can give you the latest results for your area.
What PFAS limits apply to drinking water in Italy?
Italy sets a limit of 100 ng/l for the sum of PFAS. A separate limit of 20 ng/l for the sum of four PFAS applies from July 2026. The level reported for Florence is 10 ng/l, which is below both values. Your water supplier can tell you the latest results for your area.
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
Clean-tasting water, straight from the tap, for you and your family in Florence.
Shop ZeroWater Replacement filters- EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) – PFAS in food, scientific opinion 2020. efsa.europa.eu
- greenMe – PFAS in drinking water: new limits in force from 13 July 2026 (in Italian). greenme.it
- TÜV SÜD Italia – New drinking water rules: Legislative Decree 102/2025 (in Italian). tuvsud.com
- EU Drinking Water Directive 2020/2184 (PFAS standard in force since 12 January 2026). eur-lex.europa.eu
- Acqua potabile inquinata: "La Toscana è tra le peggiori d'Italia". Città per città, la mappa di Greenpeace 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.