A new study has found dangerous levels of “forever chemicals” in wine sold across Europe. The research, conducted by PAN Europe, shows that trifluoroacetic acid (TFA)—a chemical linked to PFAS—was detected in samples of wine from ten EU wine-producing countries.
The levels of TFA in some wine bottles were found to be up to 100 times higher than those in regular tap water. These findings have triggered new concerns over food safety, environmental pollution, and health risks.
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a group of man-made chemicals known for their long-lasting nature. These chemicals do not break down easily in the environment, leading to their nickname: “forever chemicals.”
How the Chemicals Get into Wine
The study suggests multiple sources of PFAS contamination.
One major cause is the use of fluorinated gases. These are commonly found in cooling systems and industrial processes. When released into the atmosphere, the gases break down into TFA, which then falls back to the ground through rain. This process can contaminate both soil and water.
Another source is pesticides containing PFAS. These are sprayed on crops, seep into the soil, and end up in groundwater. Over time, the chemicals are absorbed by vines and make their way into the grapes—and then into the wine.
Salomé Roynel, policy officer at PAN Europe, explained, “The gases enter the air and later return to earth as TFA. This builds up in farmland and drinking water.”
A Sharp Rise After 1988
The research also shows a timeline of chemical buildup. Before 1988, no traces of TFA were found in the tested wines. But levels started to climb sharply in the early 1990s, especially after the 1987 Montreal Protocol came into effect.
The global treaty led countries to phase out ozone-depleting chemicals and replace them with fluorinated gases. While this helped save the ozone layer, it also introduced a new set of problems.
Around the same time, PFAS-based pesticides entered the market, further increasing environmental exposure.
“There is a clear link between the rise of TFA and the global use of these chemicals,” Roynel explained.
Found Even in Organic Wines
One of the most worrying findings was that TFA was also present in organic wine samples. This means the chemical may now be so widespread that even cleaner farming methods are not enough to stop it.
TFA is not yet well-studied, but early research suggests possible harm. A recent industry study found that rabbit foetuses exposed to TFA showed signs of developmental damage and reproductive harm.
While TFA can be removed from liquids, the process is costly, uses energy, and creates more wastewater, leading to another problem: how to safely dispose of the removed chemicals.
Calls for Action in the European Union
PAN Europe is urging EU governments to take immediate steps. The group wants tougher rules on PFAS chemicals, and a ban on at least one PFAS-based pesticide is already on the table.
Next month, officials from all 27 EU Member States will meet to discuss possible bans. PAN Europe hopes this latest study will convince them to take stronger measures to protect both public health and the environment.
“This is not just about wine,” Roynel emphasized. “It’s about what kind of future we want for food safety and clean water.”
What Comes Next
The long-lasting nature of PFAS chemicals means the problem is not likely to go away soon. But with increasing public awareness and mounting scientific evidence, pressure is building for regulators to act.