Health ministry launches review into effects of nitrate in water (opens original article in a new tab)

The New Zealand Ministry of Health has started a review of the health effects of nitrate in drinking water, following Denmark's decision to significantly lower its nitrate limit. Advocates argue the current limit doesn't protect against health risks like colorectal cancer, and over 800,000 people may be exposed to nitrate levels above 1mg/L.

• Health ministry initiates review of nitrate's health effects in drinking water.
• Denmark's proposed nitrate limit reduction from 11.3mg/L to 1.3mg/L influences New Zealand's actions.
• Over 800,000 people may be exposed to nitrate levels above 1mg/L, according to 2021 research.