Common Water Issues: Nitrates

Understanding Nitrates in Water

Nitrates are compounds that can enter water supplies through natural processes or human activities. They often seep into water from nitrate-bearing rocks and soils or from the use of fertilizers and pollution from organic wastes.

Problems Caused by Nitrates:

1.      Health Risks for Infants:

High concentrations of nitrates in drinking water can lead to serious health issues, particularly for infants. One such condition is cyanosis, commonly known as “blue baby syndrome.”

Cyanosis occurs when there is insufficient oxygen in the blood, causing the skin and mucous membranes to take on a bluish colour. This can be life-threatening for infants whose drinking or formula water contains high nitrate levels.

2.      Nitrate to Nitrite Conversion:

In the body, nitrate is reduced to nitrite. Nitrite interferes with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, exacerbating the health risks associated with high nitrate consumption.

Safe Nitrate Levels

Water containing more than 10-20 ppm (parts per million) of nitrate, expressed as nitrogen, should not be used for infant feeding. Ensuring nitrate levels are within safe limits is crucial for protecting the health of infants and other vulnerable populations.

Solutions for Treating Nitrates in Water

To effectively remove nitrates from drinking water, consider the following methods:

Reverse Osmosis:

Reverse osmosis (RO) is an effective treatment process that can remove up to 96% of nitrates from water. By forcing water through a semi-permeable membrane, RO systems filter out nitrates and other impurities, ensuring clean and safe drinking water.

By Reverse Osmosis, you can address the issues caused by high nitrate levels in your water supply, ensuring it is safe and suitable for consumption, especially for infants.