Shelf life for bottled water. Does bottled water expire?

Shelf life for bottled water. Does bottled water expire?

Water itself has no expiration date. Since water is a natural substance, it has an indefinite shelf life. The Food and Drug Administration, which regulates the bottled water industry, does not require a shelf life for bottled water. That means if bottled water is appropriately stored, it fits for an indefinite amount of time. However, the recommended shelf life for still water is two years, and sparkling water is one year. It’s all because some chemicals from the plastic bottle can get into the water, affecting the taste and water quality.

How Long Can I Safely Store Bottled Water?

The direct sunlight and temperatures above 70F produce the bottle chemicals to break down. This breakdown releases harmful chemicals into the water. In the summertime, a refrigerator is the best solution, or in an airconditioned house. Never store water in an unairconditioned storage space like a garage or shed.

On the other hand, cool weather helps to save water. Choose a cool, dry, covered location to store your water bottles correctly. We also suggest to don’t store water on a shelf with chemicals. 

It would be best if you store any opened bottles of water in a refrigerator. Opened water bottles have the potential of harmful bacteria; you must discard them. Discarding doesn’t mean throwing out the water; water a plant.

Need to note here, the store where you purchase the water is 70F however, was the truck refrigerated, was it stored in an airconditioned warehouse, and for how long. Improper storage and transportation directly impact the water’s freshness, stability, and resistance to bacteria and toxins from the bottles. 

Can I drink water after the expiration date?

We mentioned there is no expiration date on the bottles; however, we do recommend two years. Using any products beyond the expiration date is your responsibility. So here is what you have to discern. Bottled water should be colorless and odorless. If you sense an odor, observe a musty or metallic taste, observe a foam or a color of green or blue, It means that dirt, bacteria, or rust has seeped into the bottle. Is it harmful to drink bottled water?

Not all plastics are harmful. Nevertheless, toxins do exist in plastic bottles. The Internet is full of myths  about plastic water bottles, some are fact, and some are false. 

But, remember that plastic does not belong to environmentally friendly materials and can affect our health. In addition, tap water IS more regulated than the bottled water industry.

To avoid bottled water expire, check out simple rules.

• Store open bottle for no longer than five days and store it in the fridge.
• Do not microwave plastic bottles or pour hot liquid into a plastic bottle.
• Always keep bottled water in a cool, dark place.
• Don’t leave a bottle of water in the car, especially in summer.
• Drink sparkling water. It will nourish your body with useful microelements.
• In any case, when your choice is between plastic or glass bottles, buy water in the glass.
• Shorten your storage time at home to prevent bottled water expire.

How to avoid water shortages in catastrophic situations.

The hurricane Ida, which happened August 2021, the shortage of water, and the time it will take to make the water potable again. Why wait till the last minute to avoid long lines and needs. This situation is avoidable and with many benefits: the answer, refillable water bottles. The best one on the market is the bubi bottle. This bottle, made from silicone, Microbial, and BPA-Free, are safe and have many fringe benefits.
Before a hurricane or severe weather advisory, get prepared; the power can go out at any moment. Fill every bubi bottle in your cabinet with tap water, and place them in the freezer. If the power goes out, take out a frozen bottle every 6 hours and place it in the fridge to keep food fresh. Unlike other refillable bottles, the bubi bottle will not burst, crack or split. The frozen bottles of water are the best for drinking water.

By preparing in this fashion, you save time and frustration trying to collect water at the stores. In addition, leftover bottles do not need storing like the many unused bottles purchased before the event.