Nitrate and Nitrite in Drinking Water

As a tenant, homeowner, or parent, the issue of nitrate and nitrite in drinking water may already be familiar to you. Contamination of drinking water with nitrates and nitrites is not uncommon in Switzerland, prompting many to ask what steps should be taken to address it. 

This guide provides key information and openly discusses the topic.

Switzerland’s drinking water is known for its high quality, often surpassing that of other countries. However, tests show that Swiss drinking water can also contain nitrates and nitrites, which are considered a health risk. Analyses confirm that high levels of these substances pose a significant danger and should not be overlooked. Agriculture, manure, and other pollutants are contributing factors, preventing water from reaching our glasses in perfect purity, which could lead to long-term problems.

According to recent studies, nitrate and nitrite levels in drinking water are increasing and are difficult to control. Large-scale agriculture is one of the primary causes of this decline in water quality. Although Switzerland maintains a high standard for drinking water and enjoys an excellent reputation for water quality, contaminants are still detected in many water samples. Long-term solutions must be found to address this issue effectively.

How Harmful Are Nitrates and Nitrites in Drinking Water?

The quality of tap and groundwater is generally monitored by government agencies. If nitrate and nitrite levels exceed legal limits, authorities are required to take corrective measures and inform the public. Local water suppliers in Switzerland claim to implement programs to reduce nitrate pollution, but these efforts have not yet yielded significant success.

Information about local groundwater quality is also available online. National groundwater quality data is provided by relevant Swiss authorities. Generally, low nitrate levels below 50 milligrams per liter in drinking water are not considered harmful. Most of our daily nitrate and nitrite intake comes from food.

Special Precautions for Infants

Infants are particularly vulnerable to nitrate and nitrite contamination. For them, the permissible limit in drinking water is a maximum of 10 milligrams per liter, which must not be exceeded. Local water suppliers usually provide guidance on this and may recommend bottled water. More information can be found here.

Nitrates and Nitrites Can Cause Oxygen Deficiency

Nitrates and nitrites pose a particular risk to infants and pregnant women. In infants under 3 months old, nitrites convert red hemoglobin into methemoglobin, which cannot transport oxygen to tissues. This can lead to oxygen deprivation in vital organs such as the central nervous system and heart, potentially resulting in fatal outcomes. Adults are not at the same risk because their oxygen-binding mechanisms prevent the breakdown of nitrates and nitrites.

Nitrates and Nitrites May Be Carcinogenic

Another concern is that nitrates and nitrites can combine with amines in the stomach to form nitrosamines, some of which are suspected of being carcinogenic. Although this has not been conclusively proven, preliminary research suggests a potential link.

Water Testing Can Help

Water testing can help detect harmful substances. With a test kit, you can analyze water for risk parameters and determine its current condition. High-quality laboratory analyses can help interpret the results and identify contaminants. No prior knowledge is required to perform these tests, which can be completed as follows:

How to Conduct the Analysis

Order the desired test, and a test kit will be sent to you for sample collection. Using a simple form, you can take a sample from anywhere and send it to the lab. Once the sample is returned, the lab analyzes it, measuring all relevant parameters. The entire process takes about three weeks to provide a reliable result. Learn more about the process here.

Impact on the Environment

Agriculture and manure are the main sources of high nitrate and nitrite levels in water. Manure seeps into the soil, contaminating drinking water and leaving behind residues. To protect yourself and your family, conducting a water analysis is highly recommended. Test your water now.