KOMPAS.com – Water is a basic human need, but have you ever paid attention to the expiration date printed on bottled water packaging?
This may make you wonder, does water really expire?
Can water expire?
Properly stored tap water can be consumed for up to six months without the risk of significant side effects. However, poor storage can affect its quality.
Water that has been carbonated can lose its taste because the gas slowly dissipates. In addition, even plain water can develop a less fresh taste due to the carbon dioxide in the air mixing with the water, making it slightly more sour.
Also read: 6 Simple Ways to Drink More Water
To store tap water, use food containers that have been cleaned and sanitized. Label the container with the fill date and store it in a cool, dry, dark place for up to six months.
Although the taste may change, properly stored tap water is still safe to drink.
Bottled water, why does it have an expiration date?
Water itself has no expiration date, but bottled water is often given an expiration date.
In 1987, New Jersey became the first state in the United States to require that all food products, including bottled water, have an expiration date of a maximum of two years from the date of manufacture.
Although the law was later changed, the inclusion of an expiration date remains the industry standard.
However, drinking water from plastic bottles that are well past their expiration date is not recommended. Plastic can start to release chemicals like antimony and bisphenol A (BPA) into the water over time.
Continuous consumption of these chemicals can affect gut health, immune system, and respiratory function.
Also read: 7 Benefits of Drinking Water When You Wake Up, Helps Reduce Weight
Carbonated bottled water can also lose its carbonation, making it taste less fresh.
Therefore, even if the water itself is not damaged, the plastic container and storage conditions can affect the quality and safety of bottled water.
Tips for storing bottled water
Proper storage of bottled water is essential to prevent bacterial growth and reduce the risk of side effects such as nausea, stomach ache, vomiting and diarrhea. Some storage tips include:
- Store in a cool and dark place
Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and warm temperatures which can increase bacterial growth and release chemicals from plastic into the water.
