Human exposure to EDTA arises directly from its use in food additives, medicines,
and personal care and hygiene products. Exposure to EDTA from drinking-water is
probably very small in comparison with that from other sources. Once EDTA is
present in the aquatic environment, its speciation will depend on the water quality
and the presence of trace metals with which it will combine. The removal of EDTA
from communal wastewater by biodegradation in sewage purification plants is very
limited.