Boise's "Broth": City Pipes Crashing Collagen?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

December 29, 2025

The aroma of simmering bone broth, a comforting elixir promising health and vitality, fills countless Boise kitchens. But what if that nourishing brew is tainted before it even hits your lips? Boise’s aging infrastructure, like many cities across the U.S., presents a hidden threat: the potential leaching of contaminants from aging pipes into our water supply, ultimately impacting the quality and benefits of your carefully crafted bone broth.

Boise’s water system, while generally compliant with EPA standards, isn’t immune to the challenges of aging infrastructure. Older neighborhoods, particularly those in the North End and areas near downtown, may still have lead pipes or lead solder connecting copper pipes. This is a critical concern, as lead is a potent neurotoxin, and even low levels can be harmful, especially to children and pregnant women. Copper, while essential in small amounts, can cause gastrointestinal issues at elevated levels.

So, how can a Boise resident ensure their bone broth is truly beneficial and free from harmful contaminants? The answer lies in understanding your water source, testing for potential contaminants, and implementing appropriate filtration.

First, determine your water source. Boise primarily relies on groundwater from the Boise River aquifer. While groundwater is generally cleaner than surface water, it can still be susceptible to contamination from industrial runoff, agricultural activities, and, most importantly, aging pipes. You can find information about your specific water source and recent water quality reports on the City of Boise Public Works website. Look for data on lead, copper, and other potential contaminants like arsenic and nitrates.

Next, consider testing your water. While the city provides regular water quality reports, these reflect the overall system, not necessarily the water coming directly from your tap. A home water test is a worthwhile investment, especially if you live in an older home.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to testing your water in Boise:

1. Choose a certified lab: The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) maintains a list of certified water testing labs. Look for labs that are certified to test for lead, copper, and other contaminants of concern. A reputable lab will provide clear instructions and accurate results. Some local options include Analytics Laboratory, Inc. and Water Analysis Idaho.
2. Select the right test kit: Choose a test kit that specifically tests for lead and copper. Some kits also include tests for other common contaminants like bacteria, nitrates, and pesticides. Consider a comprehensive test if you have concerns about broader water quality issues.
3. Follow the instructions carefully: Accurate testing requires strict adherence to the lab’s instructions. This typically involves collecting a water sample from a specific tap (usually the kitchen tap) after a period of stagnation (e.g., overnight). Avoid touching the inside of the sample container to prevent contamination.
4. Submit the sample promptly: Send the sample to the lab as soon as possible to ensure accurate results. Most labs provide prepaid shipping labels and instructions for packaging the sample.
5. Interpret the results: The lab will provide a report with the concentration of each contaminant tested. Compare these results to the EPA’s Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs). If any contaminant exceeds the MCL, take immediate action to address the issue.

Now, let’s talk filtration. If your water test reveals elevated levels of lead or copper, or if you simply want to err on the side of caution, a water filter is essential. However, not all filters are created equal. Choosing the right filter for your specific needs is crucial.

Here’s a breakdown of filter types and their effectiveness:

• Pitcher filters (e.g., Brita, PUR): These are the most affordable and convenient option, but they have limited effectiveness in removing lead and copper. Look for pitchers specifically certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead reduction. These filters use activated carbon and ion exchange resins to remove contaminants.
• Faucet filters: These filters attach directly to your faucet and offer a higher flow rate than pitcher filters. They are generally more effective at removing lead and copper than pitcher filters, but their lifespan is shorter. Again, look for NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification.
• Under-sink filters: These filters are installed under your sink and provide filtered water on demand through a separate faucet. They offer excellent filtration performance and a longer lifespan than faucet filters. Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are a type of under-sink filter that is highly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including lead, copper, arsenic, and nitrates.
• Whole-house filters: These filters are installed on the main water line entering your home and filter all the water used in your house. They are the most expensive option, but they provide comprehensive protection against contaminants.

For Boise residents concerned about lead and copper in their bone broth, an under-sink filter with NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification or a reverse osmosis system is the best choice. These filters provide the highest level of protection and ensure that your bone broth is free from harmful contaminants.

Consider these specific filter recommendations available in Boise:

• For lead and copper reduction: The Aquasana AQ-5300 under-sink filter is a popular choice, certified to NSF/ANSI Standards 42, 53, and 401. It’s readily available at local hardware stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot, as well as online retailers.
• For comprehensive filtration (including lead, copper, and other contaminants): The APEC Water Systems ROES-50 reverse osmosis system is a highly rated option. It removes a wide range of contaminants and improves the taste and odor of your water. You can find it online or at specialty water filtration stores in Boise.

Remember to replace your filter cartridges regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A clogged or expired filter can actually release contaminants back into your water.

One common mistake developers make is assuming that all water filters are created equal. They are not. A simple carbon filter will not effectively remove lead or copper. Always check for NSF/ANSI Standard 53 certification to ensure that the filter is specifically designed to remove these contaminants.

Another pitfall is neglecting to test your water after installing a filter. Testing your water after filtration is essential to verify that the filter is working properly and that your water is safe to drink and use for bone broth.

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of flushing your pipes. If you haven’t used a particular tap for several hours, run the water for a few minutes before collecting water for bone broth. This will help to flush out any water that has been sitting in the pipes and may have leached contaminants.

By taking these steps, Boise residents can ensure that their homemade or store-bought bone broth is truly nourishing and free from harmful contaminants. Don’t let aging pipes compromise your health and well-being. Take control of your water quality and enjoy the benefits of bone broth with peace of mind.