EPA publishes protocol for its fluoride toxicity review
Is the EPA changing the fluoride limit in drinking water?
On August 3, 2026 EPA released the protocol for its fluoride human health toxicity assessment, the next step in an accelerated review that could lead to a revised drinking water standard; the current limit, 4.0 mg/L, is unchanged.
EPA released the 'Protocol for Developing the Fluoride Human Health Toxicity Assessment' (EPA-822-D-26-001) with two fact sheets on August 3, 2026.
It follows a preliminary assessment plan released in January 2026, with public comments accepted until February 27, 2026.
EPA says the finished assessment will inform possible revisions to the fluoride standard. No completion date has been announced.
The enforceable limit (MCL) for fluoride remains 4.0 mg/L, set in 1986. In our catalog, fluoride reduction is certified only on reverse osmosis systems, under NSF/ANSI 58.
