EU Decision on Substances in Contact with Drinking Water Raises Health Concerns
On April 23, the European Union announced a decision that has raised concerns about potential risks to health and the environment: the publication in its Official Journal of COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING DECISION (EU) 2024/367.
This measure, derived from Directive (EU) 2020/2184 of the European Parliament and Council, aims to regulate the use of substances in the production of materials or products that will come into contact with water intended for human consumption. The importance of this decision lies in the fact that its provisions apply directly in Spain.
Specifically, this decision establishes a list of authorized substances for materials that come into contact with drinking water. Companies and manufacturers in this sector must comply with these regulations. However, concern has arisen due to the inclusion of certain substances on this list, some of which are controversial for their potential to contaminate water and pose a risk to public health.
Environmental organizations and activists have expressed concern and called for a more thorough review of permitted substances. They demand prioritizing public health and banning substances that pose a risk to drinking water quality. Transparency and commitment to safety and health are essential in regulating such materials.
Permitted toxins: A detailed analysis of potentially harmful substances
Ecologistas en Acción analyzed the list of 2,028 permitted substances, highlighting several as concerning due to potential risks to human health and the environment.
- Vinyl chloride (CAS 75-01-4): Classified by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) as carcinogenic 1A, a known human carcinogen. Prolonged exposure may increase cancer risk, especially in the respiratory system.
- Formaldehyde (CAS 50-00-0): Classified by ECHA as carcinogenic 1B and mutagenic 2, potentially causing genetic alterations and cancer in multiple organs, as well as respiratory and skin problems.
- Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate DEHP (CAS 117-81-7): Classified as reprotoxic 1B by ECHA, capable of causing hereditary mutations. Also an endocrine disruptor affecting reproductive health and development.
- Dibutyl phthalate (CAS 84-74-2): Toxic for reproduction and an endocrine disruptor, associated with adverse reproductive and developmental effects in animals. ECHA is evaluating its persistence and bioaccumulation potential.
- Toluene 2,6-diisocyanate (CAS 91-08-7): Suspected carcinogen (class 2), skin and respiratory sensitizer. Exposure may increase cancer risk and cause irritation.
- Phenol (CAS 108-95-2): Suspected mutagenic 2, can cause genetic alterations and irritate skin, eyes, and respiratory tract at high concentrations.
According to the environmental organization, it is illogical that toxic substances, which would never be allowed in food-contact materials, are authorized for materials in contact with drinking water.
This contradiction raises serious doubts about the coherence and effectiveness of existing regulations. If these substances pose a threat to food safety, they may also contaminate water, putting public health at similar risk. Therefore, reviewing and reforming standards is crucial to ensure safe materials in contact with drinking water.
