Yes, baby water can expire, especially after opening.
Here's a breakdown:
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Unopened Baby Water: Commercially bottled baby water generally has a "best by" date printed on the container. This date indicates the manufacturer's guarantee of optimal freshness and quality. While the water itself doesn't necessarily "go bad" in the sense of becoming unsafe to drink before this date, the plastic container may degrade over time, potentially affecting the water's taste or purity.
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Opened Baby Water: Once opened, baby water is susceptible to contamination from bacteria and other microorganisms.
- Nursery Water Example: According to the instructions for Nursery® water, after opening, you should refrigerate it and use it within seven (7) days. Practicing good hygiene during use is crucial to preserve the quality and safety of the water.
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Why is Expiration Important for Babies? Babies have immature immune systems, making them more vulnerable to infections from contaminated water. Adhering to expiration guidelines is especially critical for their health.
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General Recommendations:
- Always check the expiration or "use by" date on the bottle.
- After opening, refrigerate baby water promptly.
- Use opened baby water within the timeframe specified by the manufacturer (typically within a week).
- If you notice any changes in the water's appearance, smell, or taste, discard it immediately.
