Bacteria found to eat forever chemicals -- and even some of their toxic byproducts

A University at Buffalo-led team has identified a strain of bacteria capable of breaking down three types of PFAS and their toxic byproducts. The Labrys portucalensis F11 bacteria metabolized over 90% of PFOS after 100 days of exposure. This discovery could lead to new methods for remediating PFAS contamination in water and soil. Researchers are now exploring ways to encourage faster PFAS consumption by the bacteria, with potential applications in wastewater treatment and contaminated sites.