No, while water itself doesn't expire, "expired" bottled water isn't necessarily good.
Understanding Water and "Expiration"
It's a common misconception that water itself goes bad. Water, in its pure form, is a natural substance and doesn't degrade. However, the term "expired" when referring to bottled water typically relates to the container rather than the water itself.
The Issue with Plastic Bottles
- Plastic Degradation: The primary concern with bottled water past its "expiration" date is the degradation of the plastic bottle. Over time, plastic bottles can break down, especially when exposed to heat or sunlight.
- Leaching Chemicals: As the plastic degrades, it can release chemicals into the water. One common concern is the leaching of BPA (Bisphenol A), although many bottles are now labeled as BPA-free. Even with BPA-free bottles, other chemicals can leach into the water.
- Recommended Shelf Life: The recommended shelf life for bottled water is around two years. This is not because the water will go bad, but rather because the bottle may begin to degrade and impact the water’s taste and potentially its safety.
Key Factors Regarding Bottled Water
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Water Itself | Water is a natural substance and does not go bad. However, it can be contaminated with microorganisms or chemicals if not stored properly, but this is different from expiration. |
| Plastic Bottle Degradation | Over time, the plastic of the water bottle can degrade. This is accelerated by heat and sunlight. |
| Chemical Leaching | Degraded plastic can leach chemicals into the water, potentially impacting taste and possibly posing health concerns. This is why it is always important to choose BPA free bottled water. |
| Shelf Life | The recommended shelf life is two years. While the water doesn't expire, the bottle's integrity can diminish, and leaching of plastic chemicals may occur past this point. |
| Taste and Odor | The degradation of the plastic may also impart an undesirable taste or odor to the water. This is another reason to avoid water bottles that have been stored for too long. |
Practical Implications
- Check the Date: Pay attention to the expiration date on bottled water and avoid consuming water from bottles past that date, particularly if you are in a more vulnerable demographic (elderly, babies, immune-compromised).
- Storage Matters: Store bottled water in a cool, dark place to minimize plastic degradation.
- Choose Wisely: When buying bottled water, opt for BPA-free bottles.
In summary
While the water itself will not go bad, it is advisable to avoid water bottles that are past the "expiration" date due to the potential degradation of the plastic and potential for chemical leaching, which can negatively impact the taste, and potentially the safety of the water.
