Cadmium

Category: inorganic

Written by WaterFilterMatch Editorial TeamApril 2026

EPA MCL

0.005 mg/L

Status

EPA Regulated

NSF Standard

NSF/ANSI 53, NSF/ANSI 58

Health Effects

Kidney damage with long-term exposure. Also associated with bone fragility (osteoporosis), liver damage, and classified as a probable human carcinogen (Group B1) by EPA.

Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations

Where It Comes From

Corrosion of galvanized pipes, erosion of natural deposits, discharge from metal refineries, runoff from waste batteries and paints.

Where It's Commonly Found

Areas with older galvanized plumbing, near industrial sites (smelting, battery manufacturing), and in areas with certain geological formations.

Relatively uncommon at levels exceeding the MCL in public water systems. More of a concern in older homes with galvanized plumbing and in private wells near industrial areas.