Bottled Water: Be Careful with the Expiration Date – In This Case, Never Use It

Introduction
Bottled water is a common and convenient way to stay hydrated, but did you know that it can expire? While water itself doesn’t go bad, the plastic bottle it’s stored in can degrade over time, potentially affecting the water’s taste and safety. Understanding the expiration date on bottled water and how to handle it is essential to ensuring your health.

Why Does Bottled Water Have an Expiration Date?
The expiration date on bottled water is not because the water becomes harmful over time. Instead, it is primarily concerned with the integrity of the plastic bottle. Plastic can leach chemicals, especially if the water is stored for a long period or exposed to heat. The expiration date is a guideline for when the water is safest to consume.

What Happens When You Use Expired Bottled Water?

Taste and Smell Changes: Over time, the plastic can affect the taste and smell of the water. It might develop a plastic or stale taste, making it unpleasant to drink.

Chemical Leaching: As plastic breaks down, harmful chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) or phthalates can leach into the water. These chemicals may pose health risks, especially if consumed over time.

Decreased Effectiveness of Packaging: The longer the water is stored past its expiration date, the more likely it is to become exposed to air or bacteria, reducing its freshness and safety.

How to Properly Store Bottled Water