Chlorite
Chlorite forms when water is disinfected with chlorine dioxide. The EPA limits chlorite to 1.0 mg/L, with a health goal (MCLG) of 0.8 mg/L.
EPA MCLG
0.8 mg/L
The level in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. This is a goal, not an enforceable limit.
Health Effects
Can affect the blood (anemia) and, in infants and young children, the nervous system. Effects are linked to higher, sustained exposure.
Source: EPA — National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (retrieved 2026-07-27)
Common Sources
- Byproduct of disinfecting drinking water with chlorine dioxide
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The EPA MCLG for Chlorite is 0.8 mg/L. Upload your water test (PDF or a photo) and we'll email a plain-English reading of where your result lands — and every other number — free. Educational only, no medical claims.
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Where is Chlorite Found?
Chlorite has been detected above EPA health guidelines in 22 cities serving 1.2M people across the US.
and 17 more cities
About the EPA MCLG
The EPA MCLG is the level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. It is a non-enforceable public health goal, and is often stricter than the legal limit (MCL) water systems must meet.
Contaminant Type
Chlorite is classified as a Disinfection Byproducts contaminant.
Related Disinfection Byproducts Contaminants
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