Baltimore’s public water system has significantly reduced fluoride levels in its drinking water from 0.7 mg/L to 0.4 mg/L due to supply chain disruptions related to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The supply chain issues have prompted similar reductions among other U.S. water systems facing shortages of hydrofluorosilicic acid, the chemical used for fluoridation. Experts warn that if these disruptions persist, more systems may be forced to cut back on fluoride. While these changes are temporary and do not compromise water quality, the move has sparked concerns within the water management community about long-term impacts on public health efforts to reduce tooth decay.
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Link to original article source: https://www.npr.org/2026/04/15/nx-s1-5786697/middle-east-conflict-causes-a-fluoride-shortage-for-us-drinking-water
