[TOXIC RISK ASSESSMENT OF FLUORIDE PRESENCE IN BOTTLED WATER CONSUMPTION IN THE CANARY ISLANDS].

INTRODUCTION

fluorine, as an hormetin, is necessary in the organism to avoid caries; but large amounts can produce toxic side effects such as dental fluorosis or skeletal fluorosis. Thus, it is important not to exceed chronically the RDIs (Recommended Daily Intakes) per each age and sex range. It is assumed that the main fluoride source is water.

OBJECTIVES

to establish fluoride concentrations at certain bottled water brands being consumed in the Canary Islands for renovating the outdated data, and to evaluate the subsequent toxic risk.

METHOD: 25 samples have been used from 7 different registered and commercialized brands, being analyzed by a potentiometer with a fluoride ion selective electrode.

RESULTS

all analyzed water brands satisfied quality criteria according to the Spanish law, no one could be considered "fluorinated water" and all of them could be used to prepare baby food. Moreover, according to the recommended daily water intake by the EFSA per each age range, no water analyzed brand could exceed the RDI for no one over 4 years old.

CONCLUSIONS

the bottled waters that are produced in the Canary Islands have similar fluoride concentrations than those that are produced in the Peninsula (all of them have a data range between 0.24 and 0.62 mg/L). The individuals who have more water restrictions are those under 1 year old; but in any case, while the child is growing up, the levels of fluoride consumption can be higher (until 19 years old) and therefore the water brands variety that can be drunk, without exceeding the RDI, is also higher. In some places in the Canary Islands, it would be advisable to consume bottled water in place of tap water.