Concerns over chemical in US drinking water

A recent study published in the journal Science has revealed the presence of a chemical compound in US drinking water, designated as chloronitramide anion, which is generated by the decomposition of chloramine. Chloramine is a disinfectant often employed as an alternative to hypochlorite and chlorine dioxide for the disinfection of drinking water. The research team responsible for the initial detection of the chloronitramide anion in drinking water, which is consumed by over 113 million individuals in the United States, provides insight into this matter. The anion was identified in all 40 samples of chloramminate drinking water taken from across the USA at average levels of 23 micrograms per litre and, in some cases, almost 100 micrograms per litre. These findings exceed regulatory limits for disinfection by-products, which normally allow for levels of 60-80 micrograms per litre. Despite the lack of definitive data regarding the toxicity of this chemical, the frequency of its identification and its resemblance to other toxic compounds raise concerns and necessitate further investigation to assess its potential long-term impact on public health.