Are nitrates carcinogens?
Nitrates are not carcinogenic but are readily converted into highly carcinogenic compounds called nitrosamines. This process occurs during some food processing techniques but mainly occurs within the body, particularly in the mouth and stomach. Vitamins C and E can slow down or stop this conversion process. Of more than 300 nitrosamines tested, about 90% are positive in animal carcinogenicity tests. Nitrosamines are capable of both initiating and promoting the cancer process.
Related Questions
- Nitrates are increasingly being monitored in discharges, and require to be removed. How can this be achieved to avoid this contaminant being present in the extended aeration effluent?
- Oh, and is it true that DSBs and plenums will get rid of ammonia and nitrites, rather than simply reducing nitrates?
- Are nitrates carcinogens?
