What does the presence of bromate in drinking water indicate?

The presence of bromate in drinking water indicates that it is a disinfection byproduct. Bromate is formed when ozone, a common disinfectant used in water treatment processes, reacts with naturally occurring bromide in the source water. The formation of bromate is a regulatory concern because it has been identified as a potential carcinogen. Monitoring for bromate levels is a critical part of ensuring water safety and compliance with health regulations, as elevated levels can pose risks to human health. This contextual understanding of bromate reinforces the need for careful management of water treatment practices to minimize the formation of harmful disinfection byproducts while effectively disinfecting water to protect public health.