Which disinfectant would work best against Cryptosporidium?

When considering the effectiveness of various disinfectants against Cryptosporidium, it's important to understand the organism's resistance characteristics. Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite known for its robust oocysts, which are resistant to many traditional disinfectants, particularly chlorine and iodine.

Ozone is a strong oxidizing agent that can effectively inactivate a wide variety of pathogens, including protozoan cysts like those of Cryptosporidium. It disrupts the cellular structures and biochemical processes of microorganisms, providing a robust method of disinfection in water treatment. Ozone can penetrate the tough outer shell of the oocysts, altering their viability and ensuring a higher level of pathogen reduction.

Ultraviolet light is another disinfectant option that can be effective against Cryptosporidium. It works by damaging the DNA of microorganisms, leading to their inactivation. However, ozone generally acts faster and can offer additional benefits in terms of broader pathogen reduction.

While chlorine and iodine have their uses in water disinfection, their effectiveness against Cryptosporidium is limited due to the parasite's ability to withstand these chemicals. So, when evaluating the best disinfectant option for Cryptosporidium, ozone stands out as a superior choice.