4 days ago
Calgary adding fluoride back into drinking water starting on June 30
Fluoride will officially be reintroduced to Calgary's drinking water at the end of June.
In a news release Thursday, the City of Calgary announced that the long-planned addition will start on June 30.
The city says it is adding fluoride back into the drinking water supply 'as a safe and effective public health measure to prevent dental cavities and improve oral health.'
'Fluoride is present in minerals and found naturally in soil, air and water. For healthy teeth, natural occurring fluoride levels in the Bow and Elbow Rivers will be supplemented to help protect against tooth decay,' the city said.
'The treatment plants will increase fluoride to the optimal level of 0.7 milligrams per litre (mg/L) as recommended by Health Canada's Guidance for Community Water Fluoridation.'
The reintroduction of fluoride was approved by a plebiscite as part of the 2021 civic general election, with 62 per cent of people voting in support.
The city spent $28.1 million on infrastructure costs to facilitate the reintroduction, plus additional annual costs of $1 million for operating and maintenance at both water treatment plants.
