About Methoxychlor

What is Methoxychlor?

Also known as 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(4-methoxphenyl)ethane, methoxychlor is an organochloride insecticide used to control pests in crops, ornamentals, and livestock. In 2003, the use of this synthetic pesticide was banned in the United States.

What Types of Industrial Uses Does it Have?

Methoxychlor was supposedly the replacement for DDT. Unfortunately, it was banned in America due to its negative effects as an insecticide. The chemical was mainly used in farming and foresting. It is an effective pesticide to control pests like fleas, cockroaches, mosquitoes, and other insects in farms.

How Does Methoxychlor Get into Your Drinking Water?

The causes for the release of the contaminant into water systems are runoff and leaching due to the use of the insecticide in farms and forests. Private water systems near farmlands using this type of synthetic pesticide are prone to contamination.

What are the Health Risks Associated with Methoxychlor?

The main health risks associated with prolonged exposure to methoxychlor is reproductive difficulties. If you’re drinking water contains methoxychlor above the EPA’s standards, take the necessary actions to remove the contaminant from your tap water to prevent potential issues to your reproductive health.

How Common is Methoxychlor in Water?

The contaminant is common in water systems near farms where methoxychlor is used to control pests.

What is the EPA’s Standards for Methoxychlor in Drinking Water?

The maximum contaminant level goals or MCLG for this contaminant is set at 0.04 mg/L or 40 ppb.

What is the Best Reduction Media for Removing Methoxychlor from Drinking Water?

Water filter systems with granular activated carbon are effective in removing methoxychlor and other chemicals from your drinking water. An AquaOx whole house water filter system is capable of screening and eliminating impurities and contaminants present in your tap water. Protect your family today by installing a reliable water filtration system at home! Call us today, and know more about how we can help you keep your water clean and fresh.

From The Agency of Toxic Substances and Disease Registry

CAS ID #: 72-43-5

Affected Organ Systems: Endocrine (Glands and Hormones), Neurological (Nervous System), Reproductive (Producing Children)

Cancer Classification: None

Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA’s IRIS Hotline with questions on cancer and cancer classification.

Chemical Classification: Pesticides (chemicals used for killing pests, such as rodents, insects, or plants)

Summary: Methoxychlor is a manufactured chemical that does not occur naturally in the environment. Pure methoxychlor is a pale-yellow powder with a slight fruity or musty odor. Methoxychlor is used as an insecticide against flies, mosquitoes, cockroaches, chiggers, and a wide variety of other insects. It is used on agricultural crops and livestock, and in animal feed, barns, grain storage bins, home gardens, and on pets. Methoxychlor is also known as DMDT, Marlate®, or Metox®.