Monochloroacetic Acid
Member of a family of contaminants called haloacetic acids (HAAs), which form as byproducts when chlorine, used as a disinfectant to kill harmful microorganisms, reacts with organic matter
EPA MCLG Level
0.053 ppb
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
Health protective benchmarks for MCA are based on general systemic effects (decreased body weight and survival) observed in animal studies. However, there is limited evidence suggesting specific human effects related to MCA exposure. Unlike closely related HAAs dichloroacetic acid and trichloroacetic acid, evidence from animal studies suggests that MCA is not carcinogenic.
Common Sources
- Most often formed when chlorine used for drinking water disinfection interacts with naturally occurring organic matter in distribution systems
- Levels are usually higher in water originating from surface water than groundwater due to higher organic matter content
- MCA may also enter drinking water as a result of industrial release or natural chlorination of organic matter (at very low concentrations)
How to Remove It
Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Monochloroacetic Acid:
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
Monochloroacetic Acid is classified as a Disinfection Byproducts contaminant.
Check Your Water
Find out if Monochloroacetic Acid is in your tap water.
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