Shelf life of bottled water: How long does it last?

## Understanding the Shelf Life of Bottled Water Bottled water is a staple in many households, offering convenience and portability. While it doesn't technically expire, several factors can affect its quality and safety over time. ### Does Bottled Water Expire? Water itself is a natural substance that does not spoil. However, the FDA doesn't require an expiration date on bottled water, though manufacturers often include "best by" dates for: - Quality assurance - Stock rotation - State regulations - Consumer confidence ### Factors Affecting Shelf Life Several factors influence how long bottled water remains safe and pleasant to drink: 1. **Packaging Material**: - **Plastic Bottles**: Most use polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Chemicals can leach over time. - **Glass Bottles**: More stable and doesn't leach chemicals. - **BPA-free plastic**: Generally lasts 2-3 years. 2. **Storage Conditions**: - **Temperature**: Store in cool conditions (50-70°F) - **Light Exposure**: Avoid direct sunlight to prevent algae growth - **Humidity**: Keep in low-humidity areas - **Chemical Exposure**: Store away from cleaning products ### Recommended Storage Duration | Container Type | Recommended Storage Time | |----------------|-------------------------| | PET plastic | 2 years | | Glass | Indefinite | | BPA-free plastic | 2-3 years | According to the [International Bottled Water Association (IBWA)](https://bottledwater.org/), bottled water can be stored for: * 1-2 years at room temperature (68-72°F/20-22°C) * 2-5 years in a cool, dark place (50-60°F/10-15°C) * 5-10 years or more in refrigerated conditions (39-45°F/4-7°C) ### Emergency Storage Guidelines > "Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for three days, for drinking and sanitation." - *[Ready.gov](https://www.ready.gov/water)* For emergency preparedness: 1. Label containers with storage date 2. Check containers every 6 months 3. Replace water showing contamination signs 4. Rotate stock regularly ### Signs of Compromised Water Watch for these indicators that water may no longer be safe: * Unusual taste or odor * Visible particles or cloudiness * Damaged or compromised container * Broken seal * Strange smell indicating contamination ### Storage Best Practices To maximize shelf life: - Keep bottles in a cool, dark place - Check seals regularly - Use a first-in, first-out system - Avoid freezing - Store away from strong-smelling foods - Monitor for damage or leaks ### Environmental Considerations Consider these sustainable practices: 1. Use reusable water containers when possible 2. Recycle plastic bottles properly 3. Choose larger containers to reduce plastic waste 4. Support brands using recycled materials For more detailed information, visit resources like the [FDA's guidelines on bottled water](https://www.fda.gov/files/food/published/Food-Labeling-Guide-%28PDF%29.pdf) and the [CDC's recommendations](https://www.cdc.gov/drinking-water/causes/index.html).

Shelf life of bottled water: How long does it last?

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