DHHS → MeCDC → Division of Public Health Systems → HETL → Water Testing → Nitrogen
Information
Nitrogen Compounds
Nitrate and nitrite are naturally occuring substances found in soils, plants, water, and other sources. Nitrogen compounds are commonly found in uncontaminated water in only very small amounts. Most of our daily consumption of nitrates comes from plants. Most nitrites are found in saliva and in the stomach where nitrate is converted to nitrite.
Drinking Water Standard and Health Risks
The primary drinking water standard is 10 milligrams per liter for nitrate - (N) and 1.0 milligram per liter for nitrite - (N). Primary standards are set to address health risks.
Nitrate or nitrite concentrations cause methemoglobinemia in infants, a disease which affects blood so that it no longer carries oxygen through the body. Also known as "blue-baby syndrome", this disease can be fatal. Infants should not drink water which is over the standard, and it should not be used for mixing infant formulas.
Nitrate or nitrite consumption does not affect adults the same as children. Generally, adults can consume much more of these substances without health risk.
Possible Source of Contamination
Nitrogen compounds can be introduced into drinking water supplies through a number of sources including privies, septic systems, municipal and industrial wastes, livestock manure spreading and storage, and heavy use of fertilizers on gardens and agricultural land.
Correcting the Problem
Locate and remove the source of nitrate contamination, if possible. Nitrogen compounds can also be removed from the water. Contact a water treatment specialist who has expertise in nitrate removal. Water treatment equipment which removes hardness or iron will not remove nitrate. See the yellow pages under "Water Treatment" for the name of a company in your area.
Do not boil the water to make it safe for temporary use--this will only increase the nitrate concentrations. Use bottled water for infants.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR NEED ADVICE ON HOW TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM, CONTACT THE HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING LABORATORY AT 207-287-1716.
