Nitrite
inorganic chemical
Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching from septic tanks and sewage; erosion of natural deposits.
EPA regulatory status
Legal limit (MCL)
1 mg/L
Goal (MCLG)
1 mg/L
MCL 1 mg/L measured as nitrogen (as N). MCLG = 1 mg/L.
Health effects
Like nitrate, high nitrite can cause blue-baby syndrome (methemoglobinemia) in infants under six months, impairing oxygen transport in the blood.
This is general public-health information, not medical advice — consult your physician with any health concerns.
National violations
43,730
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 43,730 violations of Nitrite's rule nationally.
How to remove Nitrite
distillation
NSF/ANSI 62
Frequently asked questions
What is Nitrite?
Nitrite is a inorganic chemical regulated in US drinking water. Runoff from fertilizer use; leaching from septic tanks and sewage; erosion of natural deposits.
What is the legal limit for Nitrite in drinking water?
MCL 1 mg/L measured as nitrogen (as N). MCLG = 1 mg/L.
What health effects does Nitrite have?
Like nitrate, high nitrite can cause blue-baby syndrome (methemoglobinemia) in infants under six months, impairing oxygen transport in the blood.
How many violations of Nitrite limits are on record nationally?
EPA's enforcement data (SDWIS/ECHO) records 43,730 violations of Nitrite's rule nationally.
How do I remove Nitrite from my water?
Filter technologies certified to reduce Nitrite include: reverse osmosis (NSF/ANSI 58), distillation (NSF/ANSI 62). 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