Cadmium in Drinking Water
EPA Limit (MCL)
5 ug/L
EPA Goal (MCLG)
5 ug/L
Status
Regulated
Health Effects
Cadmium can cause kidney damage, bone softening, and is classified as a known human carcinogen. Long-term exposure through drinking water poses serious health risks.
How Cadmium Gets Into Water
Enters water from corrosion of galvanized pipes, mining runoff, battery manufacturing, and natural deposits. Cigarette smoke is another major source of cadmium exposure.
How to Remove Cadmium
Reverse osmosis, distillation, and ion exchange filters can remove cadmium. Some activated carbon filters certified under NSF/ANSI 53 may also reduce levels.
Recommended: NSF/ANSI 53 Certified Filter
Activated carbon filters certified under NSF/ANSI 53 are effective at reducing lead and other heavy metals.
Up to 99% lead removal
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