A recent study published in the journal Science has identified a new chemical byproduct in tap water, known as chloronitramide anion, which raises health concerns for around 113 million Americans.

Experts urge water utilities to monitor ongoing research and take proactive measures to mitigate exposure to potential risks associated with disinfectant byproducts.

The discovery of chloronitramide anion is a significant advancement in understanding drinking water contaminants, prompting calls for further research into its health impacts.

While some scientists express concern over the health risks posed by chloronitramide, others believe that its presence does not necessarily indicate harm at current exposure levels.

As regulatory actions may take years to implement, researchers recommend using home filtration systems with activated carbon blocks for individuals worried about water quality.

Previous studies have linked disinfected drinking water to increased rates of certain cancers, but it remains unclear whether chloronitramide anion contributes to these outcomes.

Lead author Julian Fairey emphasized the importance of identifying harmful chemicals in drinking water and understanding their formation pathways to mitigate health risks.

Some studies suggest that activated carbon filters may help remove disinfectant byproducts, although further research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.

Despite the known risks, chlorine continues to be widely used in water treatment due to its effectiveness in providing clean drinking water, with experts noting that individual risks are generally manageable.

Researchers found chloronitramide anion in all 40 samples tested from 10 different chlorinated drinking water systems across seven states, with concentrations reaching up to 100 micrograms per liter, exceeding regulatory limits.

The compound's presence in chloraminated water systems is particularly concerning as it surpasses the regulatory limits for disinfection by-products, which range from 60 to 80 micrograms per liter.

Julian Fairey proposed that water utilities might consider reverting to chlorine as a disinfectant, although this would require secondary treatments to address chlorine's own toxic byproducts.