Benzine additive makes tap water taste in Baden and Würenlos

Residents in Baden and Würenlos in Aargau may notice a petrol-like taste in their tap water after traces of the fuel additive ETBE were found in the groundwater flow between the two municipalities, SRF reported. The levels were significantly below the legal limit, according to Würenlos municipality.

The water is safe to drink, suitable for consumption and can be used without restriction, the municipality said. Food businesses also do not need to take precautions. However, ETBE can be detected by smell or taste at very low concentrations.

No other petrol components or substances of a similar origin were found in the drinking water. Authorities are investigating how the residues entered the groundwater. Aargau’s cantonal consumer protection office is also involved.

ETBE stands for ethyl tert-butyl ether. It is an organic chemical compound added to fuel as an anti-knock agent, replacing toxic lead in petrol. The substance has a characteristic chemical ether smell and taste. Switzerland’s limit for ETBE in drinking water is five micrograms per litre, according to the federal website.

Further drinking water samples will be taken, and the municipalities said they would provide updates if the situation changes. ETBE was also detected in drinking water in Austria in 2022, Austrian broadcaster ORF reported at the time.