Nitrate/Nitrite Fact Sheet

Publication Year:

2013

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Resource Type:

Factsheet

Summary:

Nitrate and nitrite, primarily from agricultural runoff, can contaminate drinking water, posing risks like “blue baby syndrome” in infants. Treatment methods like ion exchange and reverse osmosis can remove them, but require proper maintenance. Regular testing, either with home kits or through certified labs, is vital to ensure water safety.

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Resource Information

Resource Type

Factsheet

Publication Year

2013

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Language

Organizational Affiliation

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Business Connect Takeaways

Nitrate and nitrite can enter drinking water sources through a variety of pathways: The brief explains that nitrate and nitrite can enter drinking water sources through agricultural runoff, septic systems, and other sources. The brief notes that infants are particularly vulnerable to nitrate exposure, which can lead to a condition called methemoglobinemia, or “blue baby syndrome.”

Treatment can help remove nitrate and nitrite from drinking water: The brief explains that treatment technologies such as ion exchange, reverse osmosis, and distillation can be effective in removing nitrate and nitrite from drinking water. The brief notes that it is important to properly maintain and monitor treatment systems to ensure that they are functioning effectively.

Regular testing is important for monitoring nitrate and nitrite levels in drinking water: The brief emphasizes the importance of regular testing to monitor nitrate and nitrite levels in drinking water, particularly in areas where agricultural runoff or other potential sources of contamination are present. The brief notes that homeowners can purchase test kits to test their own drinking water, or can have their water tested by a certified laboratory.