The Dangers of Atrazine In Drinking Water

Atrazine in drinking water has been linked to health questions, some of which concern both adults and children.

You may think you're just hydrating, but tap water can contain more than chlorine.

This article explains the issue of atrazine in drinking water and offers practical steps families can take to reduce exposure from tap water.

What is Atrazine?

Atrazine is a common herbicide, primarily used in agriculture to impede weed growth.

It is used on crops such as corn, sugarcane, and pineapples.

This synthetic chemical takes the form of an odorless, white powder and can dissolve in water.

It does not naturally occur in the environment.

Its use also extends to keeping weeds down along highways and railways.

It can be applied as powder, liquid, or granules, and use often peaks in spring and summer.

As a Restricted Use Pesticide, only those with proper certification can handle and apply atrazine.

The Widespread Problem of Atrazine in Drinking Water

Atrazine in the water supply has become a common concern. See also what’s in tap water.

Atrazine levels in drinking water get attention because the herbicide can travel from treated soils into waterways and groundwater, and then into tap water.

Once in the environment, atrazine does not always fade quickly. It can cling to soil and, depending on conditions, remain for months or even years.

From there it can reach streams, lakes, and groundwater. That is how it can show up in drinking-water supplies, especially in agricultural regions.

It is not only a rural issue. Atrazine has been found in rainwater far from where it was applied, which is why a wide range of communities pay attention to it.

Health Risks Associated with Atrazine Exposure

Atrazine has been studied for its impact on human health.

The herbicide has been described as a hormone disrupter that may affect the reproductive system even at low doses. Concerns are higher during pregnancy and early childhood.

Research has looked at its effect on a hormone known as LH, with related changes in estrogen, prolactin, and testosterone in study settings.

A biologist from the University of California also reported hormonal disturbances in frogs exposed to low levels of atrazine.

The EPA Scientific Advisory Panel in 2011 pointed to suggestive evidence linking atrazine exposure to an increased risk of several cancers, including:

• Ovarian cancer
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• Hairy-cell leukemia
• Thyroid cancer

A 2017 study found a statistically significant link between preterm births and atrazine in drinking water, even when concentrations were below the legal limit.

Research from Nebraska reported an elevated risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in people consuming water with both atrazine and nitrate.

A 2011 study also connected atrazine in drinking water with menstrual irregularities and reduced reproductive hormone levels in women.

How to Reduce Atrazine Exposure From Tap Water

Here are practical steps that can help reduce atrazine exposure from household drinking water.

First, know your water source. Public water systems typically provide annual water-quality reports. You can also look up local testing data.

If you have a private well, have the water tested and follow local guidance for well treatment. A countertop filter is not a substitute for proper well construction and testing.

A home filter is a practical next step for municipally treated tap water. See our guide to choosing a home water filtration system.

Not all filters reduce atrazine. Activated carbon filters are often used for this chemical. Maintain the system and replace filters on schedule.

For food, organic produce is grown without atrazine. Washing and peeling produce can also help reduce residue.

Staying informed about local water reports is another useful step.

Your Option for Reducing Tap-Water Contaminants

You can take charge of tap-water quality at home.

Berkey gravity systems use long-life carbon elements and are used to reduce atrazine along with many other common tap-water contaminants, including chlorine, PFAS, and heavy metals.

Official replacement filters are the Phoenix Gravity New Millennium Edition filters.

Check out our range of Berkey water filters if you want a simple no-electricity option for filtered tap water.