For more than six decades, the recommended level of fluoride was 1.2 parts per million (ppm). However, due to potential health risks, this level has been reduced to 0.7 ppm, almost half of the previous amount. In Minnesota, fluoridation is mandated by state statute 144.145. This requires a small amount of fluoride to be added to water supplies in order to meet the requirements of the law and improve dental health, reducing tooth decay. The average level of fluoride in water is currently set at 0.7 milligrams per liter, as recommended by the United States Department of Health and Human Services (USDHHS).
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recognized water fluoridation as one of the ten great public health achievements of the 20th century. The Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) performs more than 3000 fluoride tests throughout the year to ensure that fluoride levels are 0.7 ppm. Fluoride can also cause washing machines to leave residues on clothing and on scales that clog water pipes or make appliances, such as water heaters, dirty. The Minnesota Department of Health requires all municipalities to add sodium fluoride, a man-made product, to their water supplies. The Southeastern Minnesota Water Analysis Laboratory (SEMWAL) in Rochester is a certified laboratory for testing lead. Minnesota Rule 4720.0030 describes the required level of fluoride and the monitoring of fluoride concentrations in drinking water. Hard water can cause a greater accumulation of encrustations and more soap and detergents need to be used.
The UPR has never passed the lead and copper testing program since it began in 1990 under the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). Water samples are tested according to the rules and requirements of the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to ensure compliance with all drinking water regulations of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).A mixed polyphosphate solution is used to control corrosion by coating the water distribution system and household pipes to prevent the leaching of lead and copper into drinking water. Premier Water has always tried to present both sides of this debate regarding artificially fluoridated water. Municipal water supplies monitor system performance, collect daily samples, and send reports and results to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) on a monthly basis. If you choose a water softener, it's recommended that you keep a separate supply of unsoftened water for cooking and drinking. Lead and copper are inorganic compounds that differ from other contaminants in that they are rarely found in water sources.
Typically, these contaminants enter the water through the corrosion of distribution system materials, including household pipes. So what is the average fluoride content of bottled water in central Minnesota? The answer depends on where you buy your bottled water from. Bottled water companies are not required to disclose their fluoride levels, so it's important to do your research before purchasing bottled water.
