Manganese is a metal found naturally in the Earth's crust, which means it can be found in your well or spring water. It is an essential nutrient for the human body and is found in some foods. However, too much manganese in the body can cause health effects.
Some common dietary sources of manganese are nuts, tea, leafy greens and whole grains. Small amounts of manganese are added to most vitamin supplements and baby formulas to make sure people get enough. Your daily intake of manganese will depend on your food choices, and it includes the water you drink. Consuming too much manganese over a long period of time could harm your nervous system. Studies suggest that babies may be especially sensitive when fed formula made with well water that has high amounts of manganese.
High levels of manganese may also cause:
None of these effects poses a health risk.
Manganese is a metal found naturally in the Earth's crust. As rainwater moves through natural rock formations underground, it can dissolve manganese and carry it into aquifers that serve as sources of drinking water.
Testing is the only way to know if manganese is in your drinking water.
The Health Department recommends testing your well or spring for manganese every five years. You can order an inorganic chemical test (Kit C) from the Health Department Laboratory, or you can use another certified drinking water lab to test for inorganic chemicals.
The Health Department has set an advisory level for manganese at 0.300 mg/L (milligrams per liter) to protect the nervous system. If the manganese level in your water is more than (>) 0.300 mg/L, the Health Department recommends treating your water.
If the manganese level is between 0.050 mg/L and 0.300 mg/L, there may be:
None of these pose a health risk. Generally, manganese concentrations below 0.050 mg/L will not cause staining or a bitter taste.
Need help understanding your drinking water test results? Find out how to read your results
Manganese can be lowered or removed from drinking water with one of the treatment systems listed below.
Re-test your drinking water for manganese after any treatment system is installed to make sure levels are below the advisory level.
Funding is available to help you pay for water treatment or to fix your water system. Learn more about financial assistance programs and eligibility.
