Aluminum in Water

Water is essential for life, but not all water is as pure as it seems.^[1] In recent years, aluminum presence in drinking water at concerning levels is raising alarms about potential health risks.^[2]

Aluminum in Tap Water

Tap water often contains trace amounts of aluminum, which can enter the water supply through several pathways.^[3] One of the primary sources is the use of aluminum sulfate, or “Alum,” in water plants.^[4] Alum is commonly used to remove impurities and sediment, improving the clarity of water.^[5] However, improper filtration or overuse of alum can result in excess aluminum in the final product—our drinking water.^[6]

The World Health Organization (WHO) has set guidelines for the maximum allowable concentration of aluminum in drinking water.^[7] However, in some areas, water testing has revealed levels that exceed these recommendations, particularly in regions with outdated water treatment infrastructure.^[8]

Aluminum in Natural Wells

Natural wells, often thought to provide purer water, are not immune to aluminum contamination either.^[9] Aluminum can leach into groundwater from the surrounding soil, particularly in areas where the soil is rich in aluminum-containing minerals.^[10] Additionally, acid rain and industrial pollution can increase the solubility of aluminum in the environment, allowing it to seep into natural wells.^[11]

For rural communities that rely on well water as their primary source of drinking water, this can be particularly concerning.^[12] Unlike tap water, which is often subject to regular testing and treatment, well water may go untested for years, leaving families unknowingly exposed to elevated levels of aluminum.^[13]