Nitrite in Drinking Water: Health Risks, Sources, and How to Remove It
Nitrite is an inorganic contaminant with an EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 1 mg/L. Because of its potential to cause acute health issues in vulnerable populations, monitoring this contaminant is critical for water safety.
Health Effects
Consuming water with elevated nitrite levels can lead to health complications in infants. Specifically, this contaminant is known to cause blue baby syndrome in infants. Because of this serious effect, protecting infants from exposure is crucial.
How Nitrite Gets Into Tap Water
Nitrite gets into drinking water from several human and agricultural sources. It commonly enters water supplies through fertilizer runoff, septic tanks, and discharges from sewage treatment. These activities can release the contaminant into water resources that supply tap water.
How to Remove Nitrite From Your Water
Nitrite can be effectively removed from drinking water using specific filtration and treatment systems. The primary treatment methods for this contaminant are ion exchange and reverse osmosis. Installing these systems can help ensure your water remains within safe limits.
Should You Test Your Water?
To check for nitrite in your drinking water, you can review your local consumer confidence report or search the WaterQ database. If you use a private well near potential sources of contamination, having your water tested by a certified laboratory is recommended. You can also look up your local water system on WaterQ or check the Nitrite data page for reported levels in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nitrite dangerous in drinking water?
Yes, nitrite can be dangerous in drinking water, particularly for infants. It is known to cause blue baby syndrome in infants. Because of this acute health concern, the EPA has established a strict Maximum Contaminant Level of 1 mg/L.
How does Nitrite get into tap water?
Nitrite enters tap water supplies primarily through fertilizer runoff, septic tanks, and sewage treatment. These sources can release the contaminant into groundwater or surface water systems.
How can I remove Nitrite from my water?
You can remove nitrite from your drinking water by using treatment systems such as ion exchange or reverse osmosis. These methods are effective at lowering the levels of this inorganic contaminant.
Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations and WaterQ National Database. For more contaminants, visit our contaminant library.