Fluoride in Drinking Water A Scientific Review of EPA’s Standards 1st edition by National Research Council, Division on Earth and Life Studies, Board on Environmental Studies and Toxicology, Committee on Fluoride in Drinking Water ISBN 030910128X 9780309101288

A subcommittee of the National Research Council’s (NRC) Committee on Toxicology (COT) will review toxicologic, epidemiologic, and clinical data, particularly data published since 1993, and exposure data on orally ingested fluoride from drinking water and other sources (e.g., food, toothpaste, dental rinses). Based on those reviews the subcommittee will evaluate independently the scientific basis of the U.S. Environmental Agency’s (EPA) maximum contaminant level goal (MCLG) of 4 milligram per liter (mg/L) and secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL) of 2 mg/L in drinking water. The subcommittee will advise EPA on the adequacy of its fluoride MCLG and SMCL to protect children and others from adverse effects. The subcommittee will consider the relative contribution of various fluoride sources (e.g., food, dental-hygiene products) to total exposure. The subcommittee will also identify data gaps and make recommendations for future research relevant to setting the MCLG and SMCL for fluoride. The subcommittee will not address questions of economics, risk-benefit assessment, or water-treatment technology.Sponsor: U.S. Environmental Protection AgencyThe approximate start date for the project is November 15, 2002.A Final Report will be issued at the end of the project. Project duration is approximately 24 months.NOTE: Effective July 2004, the project duration has been extended to 30 months.NOTE: Effective April 8, 2005, the project duration has been extended to 39 months. Project ends February 2006.