A recent study has uncovered a potentially toxic byproduct created from a widely used water disinfectant, affecting millions of people in the U.S. and around the world.
For decades, inorganic chloramines have been employed to eliminate pathogens from public water supplies, serving over 113 million Americans and extending their use to countries in Canada, Asia, and Europe.
While chloramines have become a preferred alternative to chlorine, due to their ability to reduce certain harmful byproducts linked to bladder and colon cancer, low birth weight, and miscarriage, new research indicates these compounds may decompose into previously unidentified, potentially harmful substances.
Julian Fairey, the lead author of the study published in Science, revealed that researchers identified the mysterious \"unidentified product\" as chloronitramide anion, present in all 40 chloraminated water samples analyzed. Concentrations of this compound reached up to 100 micrograms per liter, surpassing the typical regulatory limits of 60 to 80 micrograms per liter for disinfection byproducts.
Although further toxicological studies are necessary to understand the health implications, the research team emphasizes the urgency for health and toxicity assessments.
In light of these findings, the researchers suggest that water utilities might consider returning to chlorine-based disinfection, albeit with the use of secondary disinfectants to manage the known toxic byproducts chlorine can produce. Meanwhile, for individuals concerned about potential risks, home filtration systems utilizing activated carbon blocks are recommended as a precaution.
The study highlights the need for immediate attention to chloronitramide anion in public water systems and calls for comprehensive regulatory action to safeguard public health.
Reference(s):
Study: Common water disinfectant creates potential toxic byproduct
cgtn.com
