What is the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for nitrate in drinking water?

The Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for nitrate in drinking water is set at 10 mg/L. This limit is established to protect public health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as infants. High levels of nitrate can lead to methemoglobinemia, or "blue baby syndrome," where an infant's blood cannot carry adequate oxygen. As a result, regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforce this limit to ensure safe drinking water standards. The choice of 10 mg/L is based on extensive research assessing health risks associated with nitrate exposure.