|
|
 |
back to main page
BROMATE:
What's it all about?
Background
Bromate is a disinfection by-product which, at very low levels, has been
labeled as a carcinogen. The U.S. EPA has established a Maximum Contaminant
Level (MCL) of 0.010 mg/l (10 ppb) for drinking water. It is anticipated
that the FDA will require all bottled water sold after January 1, 2002 to be
in compliance with the bromate MCL or such waters would be considered to be
"mislabeled" and possibly "adulterated" requiring a recall. The same limit
has been proposed to the Canadian Government for waters sold and/or produced
in Canada.
Where does Bromate come from?
Bromate can be formed when bromide, a naturally occurring inorganic ion, is
exposed to ozone. The conversion of bromide to bromate varies based upon the
amount of bromide present, matrix of the water, and total concentration/time
of ozone exposure (CT Value). The maximum amount of bromate which could be
formed can be calculated by multiplying the bromide level present in the raw
source by 1.6. Therefore sources with bromide above 0.0063 mg/l of bromide
could exceed the allowable limits for bromate
Where to get more information?
The International Bottled Water Association has recently completed a
resource book for bottlers remediating bromate issues. This book is
available to IBWA members by calling 703-683-5213. In addition many trade
associations including the IBWA and Northeast Bottled Water Association (NEBWA)
are planning presentations covering bromate related issues for their
conventions.
|
 |
 |
