nitrate, definition of

A compound containing nitrogen that can exist in the atmosphere or as a dissolved gas in water and which can have harmful effects on humans and animals. Nitrates in water can cause severe illness in infants and domestic animals. A plant nutrient and inorganic fertilizer, nitrate is found in septic systems, animal feed lots, agricultural fertilizers, manure, industrial waste waters, sanitary landfills, and garbage dumps.

• Food toxicity and how it effects you
  Foods we eat could contain health risks by toxic contamination of the environment in which they are grown or processed. This article discussions the various issues around food toxicity and how to minimize health effects.