1 in 4 People Anxious About Water Safety in Nationwide Survey: Growing Interest Amid Mandatory PFAS Testing
A nationwide survey reveals that 25% of people are anxious about water safety ahead of the mandatory PFAS testing starting in April 2026.
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- 📰 Published: March 31, 2026 at 19:30
Starting April 2026, mandatory testing for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), specifically PFOS and PFOA, will be implemented for tap water across Japan. PFAS, known for its water- and oil-repellent properties, has been used in various everyday products. Due to its persistence in the environment and potential accumulation in the human body, it has garnered significant attention. With detections reported nationwide, public concern regarding water safety is rising.
Forest Home Service Co., Ltd., provider of the high-performance water purifier 'WACOMS,' conducted a nationwide survey on water quality and consumer awareness. The results show that approximately 25% of respondents have felt anxious about the safety of their tap water, highlighting a growing consciousness regarding daily water usage.
This release introduces the background of the mandatory PFAS testing, along with the results of the nationwide water quality survey and consumer awareness study.
Mandatory PFAS Testing: Focus on Tap Water Safety
Following reports of PFAS detection across Japan, PFAS will be added to the water quality standards for tap water starting April 1, 2026. The standard is set at 50ng/L or less for the combined total of PFOS and PFOA, making testing and compliance mandatory for water utilities.
As water quality, previously difficult to grasp, becomes regulated, public interest in tap water safety is expected to increase. The visualization of water quality through mandatory testing may also highlight regional differences and variations based on water sources.
Regional Differences in Water Quality
WACOMS conducted water quality tests in households nationwide. Results showed that nitrate nitrogen was detected in approximately 70% of households, with confirmed regional variations. Nitrate nitrogen, often linked to fertilizers and domestic wastewater, has long been a groundwater quality issue. This survey suggests that water quality trends vary depending on the water source and region, a reality that will likely become more visible with the mandatory PFAS testing.
Consumer Awareness: 1 in 4 Anxious About Water Safety
In a survey of consumers nationwide, about 25% reported feeling anxious about tap water safety. Reasons cited included old pipes, taste/odor, and chemical substances like PFAS. Consequently, many households are turning to water purifiers or water servers, reflecting a higher selectivity regarding water. When choosing drinking water, 'safety,' 'price,' and 'taste' were ranked as top priorities.
While interest is high, many respondents were unfamiliar with substances like PFAS or nitrate nitrogen, indicating that understanding of water quality is still developing. With the mandatory testing, interest in tap water safety is expected to grow further.
Evolving Water Quality at Home: Advanced Purification Technology
In response to these needs, home water purification technology is evolving. WACOMS is a high-performance purifier that removes impurities at the nano-level using a unique 4-layer structure, including a Reverse Osmosis (RO) filter. It achieves a removal rate of over 99.7% for PFAS and over 99% for nitrate nitrogen. Its automatic filter cleaning function ensures stable water quality over long periods. It is gaining attention as a new choice for 'selecting home water' in an era of heightened safety concerns.
Forest Home Service Co., Ltd., provider of the high-performance water purifier 'WACOMS,' conducted a nationwide survey on water quality and consumer awareness. The results show that approximately 25% of respondents have felt anxious about the safety of their tap water, highlighting a growing consciousness regarding daily water usage.
This release introduces the background of the mandatory PFAS testing, along with the results of the nationwide water quality survey and consumer awareness study.
Mandatory PFAS Testing: Focus on Tap Water Safety
Following reports of PFAS detection across Japan, PFAS will be added to the water quality standards for tap water starting April 1, 2026. The standard is set at 50ng/L or less for the combined total of PFOS and PFOA, making testing and compliance mandatory for water utilities.
As water quality, previously difficult to grasp, becomes regulated, public interest in tap water safety is expected to increase. The visualization of water quality through mandatory testing may also highlight regional differences and variations based on water sources.
Regional Differences in Water Quality
WACOMS conducted water quality tests in households nationwide. Results showed that nitrate nitrogen was detected in approximately 70% of households, with confirmed regional variations. Nitrate nitrogen, often linked to fertilizers and domestic wastewater, has long been a groundwater quality issue. This survey suggests that water quality trends vary depending on the water source and region, a reality that will likely become more visible with the mandatory PFAS testing.
Consumer Awareness: 1 in 4 Anxious About Water Safety
In a survey of consumers nationwide, about 25% reported feeling anxious about tap water safety. Reasons cited included old pipes, taste/odor, and chemical substances like PFAS. Consequently, many households are turning to water purifiers or water servers, reflecting a higher selectivity regarding water. When choosing drinking water, 'safety,' 'price,' and 'taste' were ranked as top priorities.
While interest is high, many respondents were unfamiliar with substances like PFAS or nitrate nitrogen, indicating that understanding of water quality is still developing. With the mandatory testing, interest in tap water safety is expected to grow further.
Evolving Water Quality at Home: Advanced Purification Technology
In response to these needs, home water purification technology is evolving. WACOMS is a high-performance purifier that removes impurities at the nano-level using a unique 4-layer structure, including a Reverse Osmosis (RO) filter. It achieves a removal rate of over 99.7% for PFAS and over 99% for nitrate nitrogen. Its automatic filter cleaning function ensures stable water quality over long periods. It is gaining attention as a new choice for 'selecting home water' in an era of heightened safety concerns.
FAQ
What is PFAS?
PFAS is a group of synthetic chemicals that repel water and oil. They are known for being persistent in the environment and the human body, raising health concerns.
Why is testing becoming mandatory?
Due to reports of detection across Japan, it has been added to water quality standards to ensure safety and protect public health.
What are the features of WACOMS?
WACOMS is a high-performance water purifier with a 4-layer structure including an RO filter, capable of removing over 99.7% of PFAS and 99% of nitrates.