PFOA is a man-made chemical used in non-stick coatings and waterproof products. It persists in the environment and can contaminate drinking water, linked to various health issues.

PFOA, or perfluorooctanoic acid, has been used since the 1940s in manufacturing non-stick and waterproof products. It enters water sources through industrial discharge and firefighting foam. PFOA is extremely persistent, not breaking down in the environment or human body. Although phased out in the US, it remains in water due to its longevity. The EPA measures PFOA in parts per trillion and has linked long-term exposure to certain health effects, prompting ongoing research and regulation efforts.