Nitrate (NO3)

Sources of nitrate in water include decaying plant or animal material, agricultural fertilizers, manure and domestic sewage. The high level of nitrate in drinking water may creates a condition known as “blue baby syndrome” in infants under 6 months old in which blood lacks the ability to carry sufficient oxygen to individual body cells. Health Canada has established a maximum acceptable concentration of 45 mg/L. See fact sheet for details.