What is the MCL for Copper?

The Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for copper in drinking water is set at 1.3 mg/L. This value is established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as part of the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. The MCL for copper is based on health effects associated with its ingestion, which can lead to gastrointestinal distress and other health problems at higher concentrations.

Copper is an essential nutrient required by the body in trace amounts, but excessive levels can pose risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with liver disease. The threshold of 1.3 mg/L serves to protect public health while taking into account typical dietary intake of copper from food. Hence, this MCL aims to ensure safe drinking water quality by minimizing the risk of adverse health effects associated with copper exposure.