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Disinfection Byproducts

Monochloroacetic Acid

Monochloroacetic acid is one of the five haloacetic acids in HAA5 (group limit 60 ppb). Its EPA health goal (MCLG) is 0.07 mg/L.

EPA MCLG

0.07 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

Associated with an increased cancer risk in long-term studies; the EPA regulates five haloacetic acids together as HAA5. 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

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How to Remove It

Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Monochloroacetic Acid:

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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

Monochloroacetic Acid is classified as a Disinfection Byproducts contaminant.

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