Inorganic
Nitrate
Contaminant Overview and Health Effects
EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL)
10 mg/L
Legal limit set by the EPA
Contaminant Code
NITRATE
Health Effects
Blue baby syndrome in infants, decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of blood
Common Sources
1
Fertilizer runoff 2
Septic tanks 3
Animal waste 4
Sewage treatment âšī¸ About This Data
Information about Nitrate is based on EPA Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) regulations. The Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) is the highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water.