WHO urged to review drinking water standards amid nitrate health fears

A coalition of 85 global health and environmental organizations has petitioned the World Health Organization (WHO) to reassess its nitrate standards in drinking water, alleging the current guidelines are outdated and insufficient to protect public health. The letter, signed by groups including Greenpeace International and the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA), argues the 1958 set limit of 50 milligrammes per litre of nitrate - or 11.3 milligrammes per litre of nitrate-nitrogen - is inadequate in light of recent scientific evidence.

The letter, timed to coincide with WHO's annual One Health Day, warns hundreds of millions worldwide are exposed to nitrate levels below the current threshold, which studies link to colorectal cancer and premature births. While the WHO limit aims to prevent 'blue-baby syndrome' - a blood disorder more threatening to children and pregnant women - the letter asserts low-level nitrate exposure poses long-term health risks.

Organizations urge the WHO to incorporate nitrate in an upcoming review of its drinking water guidelines, advocating for a dramatic reduction to 6.0 milligrammes per litre, reflective of findings from a Danish expert panel.