Chlorate
Anion comprised of chlorine and oxygen; a disinfection byproduct of chlorine dioxide water treatment and a component of the compound sodium chlorate
EPA MCLG Level
0.8 ppb
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
Evidence surrounding the health effects of chlorate is limited. Health protective levels for chlorate have been developed based on hematological (blood system) and thyroid effects observed in animal studies.
Affected Organs & Systems:
Common Sources
- Most often formed when chlorine dioxide is used for drinking water disinfection
- Chlorine dioxide, a compound commonly used to control taste, odor, and harmful microorganisms in drinking water, rapidly converts into chlorate or related ions, chlorite (the most common byproduct) and chloride, on exposure to water
- May also enter the environment through industrial release
How to Remove It
Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Chlorate:
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
Chlorate is classified as a Disinfection Byproducts contaminant.
This contaminant primarily affects the thyroid, blood.
Check Your Water
Find out if Chlorate is in your tap water.
Search Your CityTest Your Water for This Contaminant
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