Water is considered to be the most important food of all. However, tap and mineral water is influenced by the quality of the groundwater. On average, Germany has really good groundwater and therefore, compared to other countries in the world, very good tap and mineral water. However, the German government’s current nitrate report on German groundwater to the EU Commission repeatedly raises some regional concerns.

Nitrate measurements in groundwater

The limit values for nitrate are measured at individual measuring points throughout Germany. According to the most recent study, excessive nitrate levels were found at 28 percent of these measuring points . The legally stipulated limit values for nitrate were therefore exceeded. If too much nitrate is ingested, it can damage the health of the human body. The nitrate enters the groundwater via fertilizers used in conventional agriculture. Via the groundwater, it can in turn get into the tap water and also into the springs for the mineral water.

Nitrate and phosphorus pollution

The report does not mention any significant changes in nitrate pollution. Groundwater contamination with the fertilizer has been known for some time. There are also increased phosphorus levels. Phosphorus promotes the growth of algae. This is particularly evident in agricultural regions on the Baltic and North Seas. This consequence has also been observed in the vicinity of other bodies of water, such as rivers and lakes. Elevated phosphorus levels were measured at 65 percent of the measuring points located on rivers and lakes. Phosphorus is also harmful to health in high doses.

Fertilization in agriculture

The Federal Ministry for the Environment considers conventional agriculture to be the main cause of the increased levels of undesirable minerals in groundwater. Fertilizers, such as various artificial fertilizers, but also liquid manure, would lead to this problem. The fertilizers are spread over large areas of the fields and penetrate the soil. From there they enter the groundwater. An amendment to the Fertilizer Act was already drafted in 2016 . However, this has not yet come into force. Organic farming, on the other hand, would be a good alternative because it leads to less pollution as no artificial fertilizers are allowed.

Restriction of biodiversity

Fertilizers with nitrates are used so that plants, i.e. vegetables and cereals, can grow faster in the fields. If plants grow faster, this naturally has advantages for the farm. Not every conventional farmer uses vast quantities of artificial fertilizers. However, if the use of nitrates is excessive, this leads to water pollution in the groundwater, but also in standing or flowing water in the surrounding area. This also reduces biodiversity. Some plants and animals can no longer survive in a habitat that is heavily contaminated with nitrate.

Water advice for your health: Drinking water is healthy at any age. However, if the drinking water has a concentration of more than 50 mg nitrate per liter of water, this can have a significant impact on human health. Pregnant women and families with small children in particular should find out about the nitrate levels in their region.