Contaminant guide

Nitrate

Nitrate often comes from fertilizer, septic systems, or animal waste. It is a special concern for infants.

Health context

High nitrate can cause methemoglobinemia (“blue baby syndrome”) in infants under six months.

EPA standard notes

EPA MCL for nitrate (as nitrogen) is 10 mg/L.

Standards and rules change—confirm on epa.gov/sdwa.

What you can do

Do not boil water to remove nitrate—it concentrates it.
Use bottled water or a certified treatment system for infant formula if advised.
Private well owners near agriculture should test regularly.

FAQ

Is a filter required?

Not automatically. Many systems meet standards without point-of-use filters. Filters can be useful for taste, specific contaminants, or home plumbing issues—match certifications to the problem.

Where should I verify numbers?

Your utility’s Consumer Confidence Report, public notices, TCEQ resources, and EPA ECHO/SDWIS records.