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2,4-D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) is an herbicide used to control weeds in crop such as broad-leafed weeds. It is also used to control aquatic weeds. It has been widely used since its introduction in the late 1940s. The most famous use of this herbicide was during the Vietnam war where 2,4-D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid made up half (the less toxic half) of the controversial defoliant Agent Orange.
A 2009 report from the Washington State Department of Agriculture lists it second among the top five waste pesticides, first if you don't include “hazardous waste not otherwise specified”. A 2007 estimate by the EPA ranks it number one in home, garden and industrial use. It ends up in drinking water primarily through agricultural runoff.
Health Impact
Based on studies performed in animals at high doses, 2,4-D can cause changes in the kidneys over months to years. Shorter-term studies showed thyroid, adrenal gland, and decreased body weight effects in developing animals at high doses.
At Epic Water Filters we have tested several products for the removal of 2,4-D.
Epic Pure Pitcher: >99.8%
Epic Nano Pitcher: >99.8%
Epic Smart Shield: 98%
Epic Outdoor Bottle Filter: >99.8%
Epic Urban Bottle Filter: 98%
Epic Universal Fridge Filter: >99.98%