How Long Can Bottle Waters Last?
Bottled water is a popular alternative to tap water for many people. It is convenient, and safe and often tastes better than tap. But it can also be a source of concern for those who are concerned about their health and want to make sure they are drinking the cleanest water possible.
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When it comes to bottled water, however, the answer is not as simple as how long it will last before going bad. In fact, it’s the plastic bottle itself that goes bad rather than the water inside.
This is because the plastic bottles that come in bottled water are typically polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for retail bottles and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for water cooler jugs, which can cause chemical contamination once expired or exposed to heat.
What’s more, the porous nature of PET and HDPE can allow odors and other unwanted components to build up in the liquid. This can result in an off-taste or a cloudy appearance of the water.
Some bottled water brands may even advertise stock rotation dates on their packaging. While these dates aren’t required by the FDA, they’re usually included to prevent waste and give consumers peace of mind when it comes to storing their water supply.
Regardless of the manufacturer’s reasoning behind a stock rotation date, it’s best to keep bottled water away from sources of intense heat like garages and hot cars. These areas can quickly degrade and contaminate the bottles, leading to dangerous levels of chemicals in the water you’re drinking.
It’s also important to avoid storing bottled water in a humid area, as this can encourage bacteria growth and create an environment for mold. The EPA recommends that you store your bottled water in a cool place, not in direct sunlight, and only drink it once you’ve opened it or refrigerated it.
You’ll notice that most bottled water products have an expiration date on them. These dates are there to ensure that the water is fresh, tasty, and safe for consumption, and to protect against harmful bacteria or other contaminants that could be in the water.
But if the water is stored properly and sealed in a cool, dry place, it should still be able to last for years without spoiling or developing any health problems. But if you do find yourself with an empty bottle that is more than a few months old, it’s best to replace it with another one.
In some cases, it’s a good idea to boil the water before consuming it, as this will kill any organisms that are present. This can help you to get rid of any chemicals that are contaminating the water and making it unsuitable for human consumption.
The EPA and the FDA both believe that most bottled water will last for approximately six months when properly stored in the fridge. But if you’re looking to get the most out of your bottled water, it’s a good idea to drink it sooner than later, so you can enjoy the best taste and aroma from your drinking water.