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Scientists Identify Unknown Chemical in U.S. Tap Water After 40 Years, Raising Health Concerns for 113 Million

Nov 22, 2024, 01:25 AM

An international team of scientists has identified a previously unknown chemical byproduct, chloronitramide anion, in U.S. drinking water after nearly 40 years of investigation. This byproduct is formed during the treatment of water with chloramine, a common disinfectant. The discovery has raised concerns about potential public health risks, as the toxicity of this chemical remains unknown. Approximately one-third of the U.S. population, or over 113 million people, consume water containing this chemical. The identification of chloronitramide anion sets the stage for further studies to assess its health effects, with some scientists warning that it may be potentially cancerous.