Alachlor (also known by many trade names, notably Lasso® and Bullet®) is an organic chemical used as an herbicide to control grasses and broadleaf weeds in corn and other row crops, including cotton, brassicas (cabbages, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, mustard seed), oilseed rape, peanuts, radishes, soy beans, and sugar-cane. Its use is now restricted in the United States, but it was at one time one of the most highly used herbicides in the United States.
How Did Alachlor Get In My Drinking Water?
Since it is used on fields either by broadcasting or aerial application, Alachlor finds its way into rivers, private wells, and other water supplies in your area. The herbicide will contaminate your drinking water once it enters your water supply.
Health Impact of Alachlor
Alachlor is a likely carcinogen with a wide range of harmful health effects on the liver, kidneys, spleen, eyes and blood. According to the EPA: Short-term exposure or consumption of Alachlor-contaminated drinking water may lead to liver damage, skin and eye irritation, vomiting, and gastrointestinal disorders. Individuals who are continually exposed to the chemical may increase the risks of cancer. In studies conducted on rats, the application of Alachlor on the test subjects resulted in the development of benign and malignant tumors in rats.
Epic Water Filters' products tested for the removal of Alachlor.
Epic Pure Water Filter Pitcher: >99.9%
Epic Nano Water Filter Pitcher: >99.9%
Epic Smart Shield: 98%
Epic Outdoor Adventure Bottle Filter: >99.9%
Epic Urban Bottle Filter: >98%