It depends on how the water has been stored.
Understanding Water Storage and Safety
The safety of drinking 30-day-old water largely depends on the container in which it was stored and the water's original purity. While water itself doesn't "go bad" in the sense of spoiling, it can become contaminated and unsafe for consumption.
Plastic Bottle Considerations
- Specific Plastic Concerns: According to the provided reference, the major concern with long-term water storage in plastic bottles is the leaching of chemicals from the plastic into the water. This is particularly problematic with certain types of plastics.
- Avoid storing water for extended periods in plastic bottles designed for single use or certain types of sports bottles.
- Chemical Leaching: Over time, chemicals from the plastic can seep into the water, altering its taste and potentially introducing harmful substances.
Other Storage Options
If stored in a clean, sealed glass or stainless steel container, 30-day old water may be acceptable to drink if the water was of good quality before being stored.
Factors Affecting Water Safety
Several factors influence whether water is safe to drink after 30 days:
- Initial Water Quality: If the water was contaminated before storage, it will not become safe over time.
- Storage Container: As mentioned, certain plastics can leach chemicals. The use of a suitable container (e.g. glass or stainless steel) will help.
- Storage Conditions: Temperature and exposure to sunlight can affect water quality and promote microbial growth. Cool, dark places are best.
Practical Recommendations
To minimize risk when storing water for extended periods:
- Use Appropriate Containers: Choose glass or food-grade stainless steel containers. Avoid using single-use plastic bottles or containers not made for storage.
- Ensure Cleanliness: Make sure the container is thoroughly cleaned before filling it with water.
- Proper Sealing: Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent any outside contamination.
- Ideal Storage Location: Store the water in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Visual Inspection: Before drinking, always visually inspect the water for cloudiness, discoloration, or floating particles.
- Smell Test: Give the water a sniff. If it smells unusual or off, discard it.
Conclusion
While water stored for 30 days may still be safe to drink, it is essential to assess the quality of the water before you store it and then ensure proper storage conditions. Avoid drinking water stored in certain plastic bottles due to potential chemical leaching. By following these best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of drinking unsafe water after extended storage.
