Recent revisions to the safe drinking water act: their impact on breweries.

Richter, M.G.

Abstract
Many breweries in the USA draw their process water from the public water supply. Public water supply systems must comply with regulations specified in the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) of 1974, major revisions occurred as SDWA amendments of 1986. Key elements of the 1986 amendments and the Proposed Primary Drinking Water Regulations are outlined. New treatment methods used by water treatment companies are described and their effects on breweries (coagulation, corrosion inhibition, taste, odour, chlorine dioxide content and chloramination). Basic guidelines to ensure minimal effect on breweries are given, such as establishment of close ties with management of water supply system, keeping up to date with new water regulations, monitoring water quality, information about available water treatment technology and compliance with the lead ban.
Keywords : brewery contamination legislation survey water