A global study indicates certain gut microbes can absorb and store PFAS, a group of persistent pollutants often called forever chemicals. Researchers say this microbial behavior could lead to probiotic approaches that help the body excrete these toxins. PFAS contamination is a concern in Thailand, found in groundwater near industrial sites and in the broader food chain, underscoring the potential relevance of this science for Thai public health.
PFAS are used in waterproofing, packaging, cosmetics, and firefighting foams. Their chemical stability causes accumulation in soil, water, and living beings, with links to cancers, kidney damage, developmental issues, and hormonal disruption. In Thailand, groundwater near industrial areas has shown PFAS presence, raising concerns about daily exposure and the safety of food and consumer products. Public health authorities advocate tighter controls and cleaner environments.
In Cambridge, researchers tested many human gut bacteria and found 38 strains capable of taking up PFAS at different concentrations. The fiber-degrading bacterium Bacteroides uniformis emerged as a particularly effective PFAS sponge. The team observed PFAS clumping inside the bacteria, which may shield the cells from toxicity. Importantly, scientists stress that while PFAS cannot be destroyed by these bacteria, they might be escorted out of the body with the help of such microbes.
In mouse studies, nine of the most promising bacterial species were introduced into the animals’ guts. Within minutes, these microbes absorbed substantial PFAS amounts, and most of the chemicals were later excreted through feces, suggesting a potential detoxification pathway for humans in the future.
Senior researchers emphasized the potential of gut microbes to sequester PFAS, while noting that the work remains early. “We found that certain gut bacteria can absorb PFAS and store them in cellular clumps, providing protection from the toxins,” a lead scientist said. “We haven’t found a way to remove PFAS from the environment yet, but this opens doors to strategies that could help the body eliminate these substances.”
Experts caution that current evidence comes mainly from lab and animal studies. Whether dietary changes, probiotic supplements, or engineered bacteria could safely boost PFAS removal in people still requires human trials. Scientists warn that altering the gut ecosystem must not cause unintended side effects.
The PFAS issue remains a global challenge. Regulation has focused on reducing production and release, with limited progress on removing existing PFAS from the body. The European Union and China are reducing new PFAS use, while other regions lag behind in comprehensive policies. Legal settlements and ongoing lawsuits reflect accountability efforts worldwide.
For Thailand, the implications are meaningful. As water and food filtration technologies improve, individual actions—such as maintaining a fiber-rich diet to support beneficial gut bacteria and choosing safer consumer products—could complement public health measures. Local environmental groups advise reducing exposure by avoiding highly processed foods with excessive packaging, selecting safe cosmetics, and ensuring clean water, especially for vulnerable groups.
Thai culinary traditions already emphasize fermentation, which fosters diverse gut microbes. If future research confirms PFAS-absorbing properties in specific probiotic strains, fermentation-based and probiotic approaches could gain new relevance in Thai health strategies. Medical authorities caution that not all fermented foods or probiotics will have this effect; only certain strains have shown PFAS absorption in studies.
Looking ahead, scientists plan human trials to assess how PFAS-absorbing bacteria perform in the complex human gut. They are also exploring engineered probiotics or live biotherapeutic products designed to maximize PFAS removal, potentially aligning with Thailand’s biotech sector. Global cleanup costs for PFAS are enormous, and a natural, gut-based approach could significantly benefit public health and environmental stewardship if proven effective.
For readers, practical steps remain: limit unnecessary PFAS exposure, support stronger environmental regulations, and pursue diets that promote gut health. When considering probiotic supplements, favor products with solid scientific backing and follow official health guidance as new findings emerge.
In summary, the idea that gut bacteria can trap PFAS adds urgency to dietary choices, policy development, and continued research in Thailand. While promising, real-world benefits will require careful scientific validation, transparent communication, and collaboration between traditional knowledge and modern science.