Cadmium
Heavy metal most often found in drinking water due to the corrosion of galvanized pipes. It has a variety of industrial uses, primarily as a component in batteries, pigments, coatings, and electroplating. It also occurs as a natural impurity in phosphate rocks, and is present in certain phosphate fertilizers as a result. Cadmium can accumulate in plants and organisms throughout the food chain from contaminated soil and water. Long-term exposure to excess cadmium may lead to kidney dysfunction, skeletal defects, and multiple types of cancer.
EPA MCLG Level
5 ppb
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
Health protective benchmarks for cadmium in drinking water are based on kidney toxicity and skeletal defects (osteoporosis, increased bone fractures, decreased bone mineral density). In animal studies, cadmium has been shown to cause adverse developmental effects as well.
Affected Organs & Systems:
Common Sources
- Primarily enters drinking water from the corrosion of galvanized pipes, erosion of natural deposits, discharge from metal refineries, and runoff from fertilizers and disposal sites containing waste batteries and paints
How to Remove It
Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Cadmium:
EPA MCLG Level
The EPA MCLG represents the maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest scientific research. It's often more protective than federal legal limits.
Contaminant Type
Cadmium is classified as a Metals contaminant.
This contaminant primarily affects the developmental, kidneys, and other systems.
Check Your Water
Find out if Cadmium is in your tap water.
Search Your CityTest Your Water for This Contaminant
Public water reports may not test frequently enough or at your specific tap. Professional home testing provides current, location-specific results.
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