opinion<\/a> on the presence of nitrates in drinking water.<\/p>\n\nDrinking water contributes between 20% and 25% of total dietary exposure to nitrates<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\nSources of nitrates in water come from natural processes associated with the nitrogen cycle and from agricultural activities, such as the spreading of mineral fertilisers or livestock effluents.<\/p>\n\n
After ingestion, part of the nitrates is converted into nitrites. When present in excess, nitrites lead to the formation of genotoxic and carcinogenic nitroso compounds in the digestive tract.<\/p>\n\n
According to the Order of 11 January 2007, the quality limit for nitrates in drinking water is 50 mg\/L.<\/p>\n\n
If the quality limit is exceeded, a temporary derogation for water use may be granted for concentrations between 50 and 100 mg\/L in distributed water. This derogation must be accompanied by a recommendation against consumption for pregnant women and infants.<\/p>\n\n
Here are the conclusions of the working group and the ERCA expert committee:<\/p>\n\n
\n- Nitrates from drinking water contribute 20% to 25% of total nitrate intake<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n
\n- Epidemiological studies have identified an association between nitrate exposure via drinking water consumption and the risk of colorectal cancer<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n