The current measured value in Kevelaer is 2.4 micrograms per liter. For comparison: the guideline value of the Federal Environment Agency is 60 micrograms. Even the precautionary recommended orientation value of 10 micrograms is clearly undercut. This means that our drinking water is within a range that is considered harmless to health.
TFA (trifluoroacetic acid) is formed as a degradation product of fluorine-containing compounds that are found in many everyday products. Examples include outdoor clothing, rain jackets, Teflon pans, pesticides, fire-fighting foam and certain medicines and coolants. Because TFA hardly degrades in the environment, it is referred to as an "eternal chemical". It not only ends up in water, but is also found in some foods such as cereals, dairy products and vegetables - often in much higher quantities.
Security through control
"Our water is tested regularly and the measured values are reliably within the safe range," says Wolfgang Toonen, Operations Manager at Stadtwerke Kevelaer. "We can also give the all-clear for the currently discussed TFA. At the same time, we are keeping a close eye on developments and reacting promptly if values change." In addition to TFA, we test many other parameters: We regularly analyze nitrate, pesticides and other substances at over 60 measuring points in the city. We have been monitoring groundwater in this way for decades in order to identify trends at an early stage and safeguard water quality in the long term.
So that you can see for yourself, in future we will include a current drinking water analysis with every annual consumption bill. Because we are convinced that only those who are informed can develop trust - especially when it comes to such an important topic as our No. 1 foodstuff.
By the way: An information sheet on the current drinking water analysis is not only available here, but also permanently in the drinking water section of our homepage - for anyone who would like to know more.