According to the data from the National Agency for Public Health, the 25 cases of nitrate poisoning recorded during the period 2021-2025 were mainly caused by the consumption of water from wells with a high nitrate content, and not by the consumption of green or yellow watermelons.

Specialists explain that the malaise that occurs after consuming watermelons can have other causes. Among these are the consumption of a large quantity in a short time, the digestive sensitivity of some people, non-compliance with hygiene rules before consumption, contamination of the fruit during handling, or storing the cut watermelon at inappropriate temperatures.

ANSA also refers to the conclusions of the European Food Safety Authority, according to which illnesses associated with watermelon consumption are usually caused by microbiological contamination, including bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, and not by nitrate content.

To mitigate risks, ANSA recommends purchasing watermelons only from authorized locations, washing the rind before cutting, and storing the cut fruit in the refrigerator. The institution emphasizes that nitrate poisoning cannot be determined solely based on digestive symptoms, but requires medical and laboratory confirmation.

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The Mayor of Puhaceni, Veaceslav Plamadeală, stated that, according to the analyses from 2023, out of approximately 12 public wells, the values of the physico-chemical indices exceed the permitted standard, and the bacteriological indices – enterococci and coliforms – are positive, while the standard stipulates a zero value.

Some locals use water from wells only for watering animals or irrigating gardens, while others use it for consumption, after filtering or boiling. However, the direct consumption of contaminated water poses risks to health.

The specialist doctor of the Causeni Public Health Center, Alexandru Coteata, warns that the constant use of non-compliant water can increase the risk of cardiovascular, oncological, and digestive system diseases.

The professor from the “Nicolae Testemitanu” State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Grigore Friptuleac, asserts that a high level of nitrates can affect the oxygen transport in the body, causing hypoxia and, in some cases, anemia.

Specialists recommend placing warning panels at public fountains, noting that the water is suitable only for domestic and technical use. At the same time, the long-term solution remains the construction of an aqueduct and a water treatment station.

This journalistic material was prepared by the IPN Press Agency, within the Small Grants Program for Media “Community Journalism for a Healthy Environment and Green Justice”, carried out within the project “Green Justice for a Protected Environment and Sustainable Communities in the Republic of Moldova”, implemented by the EcoContact AO, with the support of Sweden. The content of this journalistic material is the sole responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily reflect the views of EcoContact or the donor.

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Also, foods intended for infants and young children – based on cereals or easy to ingest, can contain high levels of nitrates if they do not comply with food safety standards.

“Once in the body, nitrates can cause symptoms of poisoning, such as drowsiness, sudden fatigue after eating, balance disorders, and in severe cases, even coma. In case of suspected poisoning, immediate medical emergency intervention is recommended,” pediatrician Inga Vicol told IPN.

Moreover, the pediatrician warns that improper feeding of infants under 3 months, even with “safe” foods, can cause a serious condition characterized by skin cyanosis – “blue baby syndrome”.

“In infants, hemoglobin transforms into a form incapable of efficiently transporting oxygen, leading to an increase in the level of carbon dioxide in the blood and the appearance of a blue coloration, due to the immaturity of their immune and enzymatic system.” explains the cited source.

Another issue with nitrates is their transformation into nitrites, which, when combined with certain substances in food or tissues, can form nitrosamines – compounds with carcinogenic potential. According to the pediatrician, this process increases the risk of developing gastric and colorectal cancer.

Additionally, pediatrician Inga Vicol warns that improper feeding of infants under 3 months, even with “safe” foods, can cause a serious condition characterized by skin cyanosis – “blue baby syndrome”.

“In infants, hemoglobin transforms into a form incapable of efficiently transporting oxygen, leading to an increase in the level of carbon dioxide in the blood and the appearance of a blue coloration, due to the immaturity of their immune and enzymatic system.” explains the cited source.

In a response to IPN, the National Agency for Food Safety clarifies that nitrates E 251 and E 252, used in processed meat, are additives for preservation and prevention of dangerous bacteria, such as Clostridium botulinum. They contribute to maintaining the red color and specific aroma of the products, and their use is regulated by an order of the Ministry of Health.

To mitigate risks, ANSA recommends thorough washing of vegetables, keeping them refrigerated, peeling, and if possible, boiling in water that should be discarded after preparation. Moreover, adding a drop of lemon juice to the soaking water can help neutralize nitrates.

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