Elevated Iron Concentrations in Drinking Water: A Potential Health Risk

Geochemistry & Hydrochemistry

Date posted: 02/12/16

Rosborg, I., reports that iron is an important element for animals and humans, especially needed in hemoglobin for oxygen transport to the cells. Iron is mainly lost through cell defoliation and desquamation of skin cells, but in very small amounts. Hundreds of cows and calves died after ample and bloody diarrhea, followed by loss of appetite and weight, apathy and paralysis on a Swedish farm. Water analysis of the drilled well indicated water rich in health bringing minerals such as calcium, magnesium and bicarbonate. However, iron concentration was elevated, 1.3 mg/L. Autopsy of four calves showed inflamed gastrointestinal tract. Men from the same area reported similar symptoms. Hair of the men was high in iron, and the drinking water similarly revealed a high iron concentration greater than 1 mg/L. Problems with weight loss and diarrhea in horses were also reported, but from another area in Sweden. People and cattle living on this farm had similar symptoms. Well water iron concentration was 1.0 to 5.5 mg/L, as tested through the years. Hair of horses showed elevated iron. Microbiologically, all these waters were without note. Iron in drinking water >1 mg/L seems to be a health risk to humans, cattle and horses.