Cadmium
metal
Corrosion of galvanized pipes; erosion of natural deposits; discharge from metal refineries and runoff from waste batteries and paints.
EPA regulatory status
Legal limit (MCL)
0.005 mg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0.005 mg/L
MCL 0.005 mg/L (5 ppb). MCLG = 0.005 mg/L.
Health effects
Long-term exposure is associated with kidney damage.
This is general public-health information, not medical advice — consult your physician with any health concerns.
National violations
37,157
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 37,157 violations of Cadmium's rule nationally.
How to remove Cadmium
Frequently asked questions
What is Cadmium?
Cadmium is a metal regulated in US drinking water. Corrosion of galvanized pipes; erosion of natural deposits; discharge from metal refineries and runoff from waste batteries and paints.
What is the legal limit for Cadmium in drinking water?
MCL 0.005 mg/L (5 ppb). MCLG = 0.005 mg/L.
What health effects does Cadmium have?
Long-term exposure is associated with kidney damage.
How many violations of Cadmium limits are on record nationally?
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 37,157 violations of Cadmium's rule nationally.
How do I remove Cadmium from my water?
Filter technologies certified to reduce Cadmium include: reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58), activated carbon (NSF/ANSI 53). Look for a filter independently certified against the specific NSF/ANSI standard for this contaminant — general "reduces contaminants" marketing claims are not the same as a contaminant-specific certification.
Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations · Data as of 2026-07-16