No, club soda itself doesn't go bad in the sense of becoming unsafe to drink. However, its quality diminishes over time.
Unopened Club Soda:
- Shelf Life: Unopened club soda can be stored indefinitely. The expiration date on the packaging indicates when the beverage will be at its best quality, not when it becomes unsafe. [Source: Cooklist, Still Tasty]
- Quality Degradation: While safe to consume past the expiration date, you might notice a decrease in carbonation and a potential change in taste. [Source: Cooklist]
- Storage: Storing unopened club soda at room temperature is acceptable, though cooler temperatures will prolong its peak quality. [Source: Still Tasty]
Opened Club Soda:
- Consumption Timeline: Once opened, club soda should be consumed within 2-3 days. The carbonation escapes rapidly after opening, resulting in a flat, less enjoyable beverage. [Source: Cooklist]
- Safety: Even after losing its fizz, opened club soda remains safe to drink, provided it has been stored properly and shows no signs of contamination. [Source: Quora, Reddit]
In Summary:
Club soda's safety isn't compromised by time, but its quality—primarily its carbonation—is affected. Unopened club soda can last indefinitely, while opened club soda should be consumed within 2-3 days for optimal taste and fizz. The expiration date is more a "best by" date than a "use by" date regarding safety.
