Battle Creek Temporarily Reduces Fluoride in Drinking Water

Battle Creek has temporarily reduced the amount of fluoride added to the city’s drinking water.

The change is intended to stretch existing supplies during a nationwide shortage of fluoridation chemicals and a period of higher prices.

City officials say treated water currently contains about 0.50 milligrams of fluoride per liter.

That is below the recommended community-water target of 0.70 milligrams per liter but remains above Battle Creek’s naturally occurring level of roughly 0.15 to 0.20 milligrams per liter.

The city emphasizes that the adjustment affects only the amount of fluoride being added.

Fluoridation is not required under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, and officials say the change does not affect the city’s compliance with that law.

The reduced level began August 21.

Current projections indicate the city’s fluoride supply should last through at least December while staff seek additional supplies and more stable pricing through a future bidding process.

Michigan environmental regulators have been notified, and other water systems around the state are facing similar supply challenges.

The city plans to return to the recommended level when supplies and pricing make that practical.

Residents do not need to boil their water or take emergency action because of this fluoride adjustment.

People with questions about dental health may wish to speak with their dentist, especially if they are concerned about fluoride exposure for children.

Why did Battle Creek reduce fluoride levels?

The city is conserving its supply because fluoridation chemicals are harder and more expensive to obtain nationwide.

Is Battle Creek’s drinking water still compliant?

Yes, city officials say the fluoride adjustment does not change compliance under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

How long will the temporary reduction last?

No firm end date has been announced, but the city expects its current supply to last through at least December and intends to restore the recommended level when practical.

Verified resources

Residents can review the official city notice, contact the Battle Creek Water Department or read Michigan drinking-water information.

Sources and useful links: official city notice | Battle Creek Water Department | Michigan drinking-water information