0rganic chemicals in our drinking water may be naturally occurring or result from agricultural or industrial pollution.

Naturally occurring organics result from the water passing through peat or decaying vegetation before reaching the reservoir. These organics are usually humic acids or tannin, the unpleasant aspects of which are color, taste and odor.

Organics introduced by agricultural or industrial pollution are herbicides, pesticides, and organic solvents. More recently we have learned of the presence of PAHs (Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbons) which are by-products of the decomposition of the bituminous Ifiiing of the water supply i .

Some of these organics have been associated with long term health effects such as cancer. E.P.A. and E.E.C. regulations call for very low maximum allowable levels. Furthermore, the reaction of some of these organics with the residual chlorine in the drinking water can produce chlorinated hydrocarbons which are regarded as more harmful than the original organic.

Organic compounds can be effectively removed by adsorption onto activated carbon.

The cavity of the Super Sterasyl™ candle contained granulated activated carbon. Used in a gravity filter applications, the Super Sterasyl™ effectively reduces organic compounds in the water.