Question 1

What is the EPA limit for chlorite in drinking water?

Accepted Answer

The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for chlorite is 1 ppm. Public water systems must keep chlorite below this level.

Question 2

What are the health effects of chlorite in drinking water?

Accepted Answer

The EPA MCL for chlorite is 1 ppm (1,000 ppb). Chlorite causes oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia in severe cases. Infants and young children are most susceptible because their antioxidant defense systems are n

Question 3

Where does chlorite in drinking water come from?

Accepted Answer

Chlorite is not found naturally in source water. It forms exclusively as a byproduct when water utilities use chlorine dioxide (ClO2) as a disinfectant. Approximately 5-8% of US water systems use chlorine dioxide, primarily as a pre-oxidant

Question 4

How do I remove chlorite from my drinking water?

Accepted Answer

Chlorite is effectively removed by: Activated Carbon, Reverse Osmosis, Ion Exchange. Look for NSF-certified filters that explicitly list chlorite reduction.

Chlorite in Drinking Water - EPA MCL, Health Effects & Removal