NZ - Tapping into the science

Fluoride in the drinking water

Water NZ has released a new code of practice for water fluoridation plants built or upgraded after January 1 this year. And new CE John Pfahlert says fluoride opponents may choose their opinions but they can’t pick their science.

Nothing seems to ignite public debate in a community as fast as a proposal by a territorial authority to start fluoridating the town drinking water. So it’s no surprise that the topic has been in the news a lot over the past couple of years.

Water fluoridation is the adjustment of the natural content of fluoride in drinking water to a level that helps protect teeth against tooth decay. In New Zealand, the decision to adjust the level of fluoride in water supplies is held by drinking-water suppliers (local authorities and other owners).

The Ministry of Health recommends the adjustment of fluoride to between 0.7 and 1.5 milligrams/litre as the most effective and efficient way of preventing tooth decay in communities receiving a reticulated water supply. There is no legal requirement to add fluoride, with each decision to do so up to the relevant territorial local authority.

John Pfahlert: Working to clarify the fluoride debate.

The latest policy development is advocacy by LGNZ for the decision to fluoridate, or not, to be assumed by the Ministry of Health. The argument in favour of this option is based on the fact that fluoridation is a public health issue. LGNZ says the decision should be made by health officials, rather than local government which just owns and operates the water assets. It’s an option that certainly requires further consideration...............