As an expert in environmental health, I can provide you with information on the safe levels of nitrates in drinking water. The
World Health Organization (WHO) sets guidelines for drinking water quality to protect public health. According to the WHO, the
safe level for nitrate in drinking water is defined as a concentration of
50 mg/L (milligrams per liter) for nitrate as nitrogen (NO3-N). This guideline value is based on the potential risk of methemoglobinemia, also known as "blue baby syndrome," in infants.
It's important to note that different countries may have their own standards, which can be more or less stringent than the WHO guideline. For example, the **United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)** has set the limit for nitrate in drinking water at
10 mg/L as nitrogen, which is more conservative than the WHO guideline.
To ensure safety, regular monitoring of drinking water sources is crucial, and any levels exceeding the recommended guidelines should be addressed promptly.
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