Nitrate in Drinking Water
EPA Limit (MCL)
10000 ug/L
EPA Goal (MCLG)
10000 ug/L
Health Guideline
0.14 ug/L
Source: EWG
Status
Regulated
Health Effects
Nitrate is especially dangerous for infants, causing "blue baby syndrome" (methemoglobinemia), where the blood cannot carry enough oxygen. In adults, it has been linked to certain cancers and thyroid problems.
How Nitrate Gets Into Water
Agricultural runoff (fertilizers, animal waste) is the primary source. Also enters water from septic systems, wastewater treatment plants, and natural deposits.
How to Remove Nitrate
Reverse osmosis, ion exchange, and distillation effectively remove nitrate. Standard activated carbon filters do NOT remove nitrate.
Recommended: Reverse Osmosis or Ion Exchange
RO systems or specialized ion exchange filters can reduce nitrates, arsenic, and other inorganic contaminants.
Up to 95% removal depending on contaminant
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