What is orthophosphate and why is it being added to my drinking water?
Orthophosphate is a food-grade chemical and is generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration. It is certified for use in drinking water treatment by the National Sanitation Foundation, and is used widely as a food acidifier in soft drinks. Orthophosphate, is a commonly used as a “corrosion inhibitor,” which when added to finished drinking water will form a protective coating on the inside of service lines and household plumbing reducing lead leaching into drinking water. Starting August 23, 2004, it is being added to the drinking water supplies in DC, Arlington, Falls Church, Vienna, and in parts of northeast Fairfax County served by Falls Church.
