Monobromoacetic Acid (MBA)
Monobromoacetic acid is a brominated member of the HAA5 group (group limit 60 ppb); the EPA has not set an individual health goal for it.
Health Effects
One of the brominated haloacetic acids; associated with an increased cancer risk in long-term studies and reported as part of the HAA5 and HAA9 groups. The risk is chronic and lifetime rather than acute.
Common Sources
- Byproduct of disinfecting drinking water with chlorine
- Formed when chlorine reacts with natural organic matter such as decaying leaves, runoff, and algae
- Elevated when the source water contains naturally occurring bromide
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Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Monobromoacetic Acid (MBA):
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Contaminant Type
Monobromoacetic Acid (MBA) is classified as a Disinfection Byproducts contaminant.
Related Disinfection Byproducts Contaminants
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