Metals

Tin

Metal commonly used to line cans for food, beverages, and aerosols. Tin compounds are also used in a variety of plumbing materials including brass, bronze, pewter, and polyvinyl chloride, and in solder used to join pipes.

Health Guideline Level (HGL)

4 ppb

Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science

Health Effects

Health protective benchmarks for inorganic tin in drinking water are based on adverse effects to the liver and kidneys. Benchmarks for tributyltin oxide—an organotin compound—are based on adverse effects on the immune system.

Affected Organs & Systems:

Kidneys
Immune System
Liver

Common Sources

  • Found in small amounts in most natural foods, but canned liquids and foods often contain a higher amount due to the disintegration of tin lining
  • Sources of tin in the environment include the erosion of natural deposits, agricultural activity, and the production and use of tin and tin compounds

How to Remove It

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

Health Guideline Level

The HGL 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

Tin is classified as a Metals contaminant.

This contaminant primarily affects the kidneys, immune-system, and other systems.

Check Your Water

Find out if Tin is in your tap water.

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