Shreveport, La. – The city’s water system will not receive fluoride for the foreseeable future after the municipal supply was exhausted amid a broader national shortage. The pause affects a program that has been in place since 1978, when the city began adding the mineral to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce decay.
City officials explain the shortage
Interim water and sewerage director Brandon Snead told reporters the city has been in constant contact with its supplier, Pencco, but has not received a new shipment and cannot predict when one will arrive. Snead noted that the shortage is not unique to Shreveport. “It’s affecting water systems across the United States. So we’re not unique,” he said. “Even in the state of Louisiana, it’s affecting water systems.”
Other major municipalities, including Milwaukee, Wis., and Baltimore, Md., have already reduced or halted fluoridation for the same reason.
Safety of the water supply
Both Snead and Mayor Tom Arceneaux emphasized that the lack of fluoride does not compromise the safety, taste, or odor of Shreveport’s drinking water. “Fluoride is only for dental issues. It is not a treatment issue. It has no effect on treatment, taste or odor,” Snead explained. Mayor Arceneaux added in a written statement that the water continues to undergo the same treatment and quality‑control processes that ensure it meets all state and federal standards.
Legal background
Louisiana law requires public water systems serving more than 5,000 connections to maintain optimal fluoride levels, though certain parishes and cities may qualify for exemptions. The current pause is a temporary operational response, not a policy change.
When will fluoridation resume?
Snead said the city will restart fluoridation as soon as the supply chain is restored and a new shipment is received. “As soon as we get it back and the supply chain is back in action, we will be on the list for that delivery,” he said.
The shortage has been traced to disruptions at major production facilities, including a plant in Israel, according to reporting by the Associated Press and NPR. Industry analysts warn that the issue could persist for several months if the underlying supply‑chain challenges are not resolved.
Residents who rely on Shreveport’s water for daily use are encouraged to continue drinking the water as usual. The city will provide updates through its website and local news outlets as more information becomes available.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
