How long is bottled water good for after date?

Bottled water typically has an expiration date printed on the bottle, which raises the question – how long is bottled water still safe to drink after that date has passed? The answer depends on a few factors.

Does bottled water really expire?

First, it’s important to understand that bottled water doesn’t exactly “expire” in the same way that milk or meat does. The expiration date on bottled water is more of a “best by” date, meaning the manufacturer estimates the water will taste best and be at peak quality up to that date.

However, bottled water can still be safe to drink and retain its nutritional value long after that date, as long as it has been stored properly. The key factors that determine how long it lasts are the type of bottle, exposure to heat and sunlight, and potential bacterial growth.

How the bottle type affects shelf life

Plastic (PET) bottles: These allow minimal oxygen exchange with the outside air, so the water retains freshness longer. Unopened, PET bottles can be good 12-18 months past the expiration date if stored in a cool, dark place.

Glass bottles: Less airtight than plastic, so may have more oxygen exchange. Good for 9-12 months after expiration if kept from sunlight.

Boxed/cartons: Shelves life is 6-9 months past date since cartons are typically less airtight.

Protecting bottled water from heat & sunlight

Heat and sunlight are the two biggest factors reducing bottled water’s shelf life. Keeping your water supply in a cool, dark pantry or basement is ideal. High heat can cause plastic bottles to leach chemicals into the water; sunlight can allow microbial growth.

If water bottles have been exposed to direct sunlight or temperatures over 100°F for an extended time, it’s best to discard them after the expiration date, as bacteria may start growing. A general rule of thumb is to use bottled water within 3-6 months of the date if it’s been exposed to summer heat or sunlight.

Watching for bacterial growth

While plastic and glass bottles prevent contamination from outside sources, bacteria could be introduced during manufacturing or packaging. Over time, a small bacterial population can multiply if water is stored at warm temps. This is more likely around 6-9 months after expiration.

Signs that bacteria are growing include cloudiness, slimy texture, and foul smell. If you observe these, it’s safest to discard the water instead of drinking it.

Taste test

Your sense of taste and smell are useful tools for checking older bottled water. If it smells normal and tastes fresh, not stale, sour or unpleasant, then it is likely still fine to drink, even several months past its date.

However, if you notice off odors, flavors or cloudiness, it is best to err on the side of caution and discard it.

Does water type affect shelf life?

Yes, the source and treatment process used can impact how long bottled water stays fresh:

  • Spring water – Since spring water comes straight from an underground source, it contains more minerals than tap water that has gone through purification. The minerals may cause some precipitation over time that affects taste.
  • Purified water – Undergoes more intensive filtration processes. Lack of minerals means it may taste “flat” after several months but still be safe to drink.
  • Mineral water – Also comes from a natural source and contains more minerals. The minerals preserve taste but can develop sediment if stored too long.
  • Distilled water – Purified through evaporation/condensation so has very low mineral content. Can have somewhat shorter shelf life – 6-9 months past date.
  • Flavored water – Shelf life varies based on type of additives. Citric acid as a preservative improves shelf life. Store chilled and discard if any odor or color changes develop.

How to extend bottled water’s shelf life

To get the longest safe use out of your bottled water, follow these tips:

  • Store unopened bottles in a cool, dark place like a pantry or basement, between 50-70°F.
  • Avoid placing in direct sunlight or near heat sources like hot pipes or appliances.
  • Keep water stored upright instead of horizontally, which can compromise bottle cap integrity over time.
  • Check regularly for any signs of cloudiness, microbial growth, or leaks.
  • After opening, use plastic bottles within 6 months and glass bottles within 1-2 years for best taste.
  • Consume flavored water within 3-6 months of opening.
  • Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations – don’t transfer bottles straight from very cold fridge to hot outdoors.

Can you drink expired bottled water if an emergency?

In an emergency situation where fresh water is not available, consuming bottled water slightly past its expiration date is generally not harmful for healthy adults. Keep these precautions in mind:

  • Inspect water for any signs of contamination like odor, taste, cloudiness.
  • Discard any bottles that have been exposed to heat/sunlight or are damaged.
  • Use the cleanest, most sealed bottles available.
  • Stick to small quantities if drinking expired water, and properly disinfect if possible.
  • Avoid giving expired water to those with compromised immunity like older adults, infants, pregnant women, or those with chronic illnesses.

While not recommended under normal circumstances, drinking water 1-2 months past its date is low risk for most healthy people. The main concern is bacterial growth, so expired water should be boiled, filtered, or chemically disinfected if possible.

Disinfecting expired bottled water

If bottled water is past its date and proper storage conditions can’t be verified, you can reduce potential microbial hazards by:

  • Boiling: Bring water to a rolling boil for 1 full minute, then let cool before use.
  • Chemical disinfection: Add 8 drops (about 1/8 tsp) of plain, unscented chlorine bleach per gallon. Mix and let stand 30 minutes before use.
  • Water filters: Devices rated to remove bacteria should make water safer to drink. Look for filters certified for cyst removal.
  • UV light: Portable UV purifiers inactivate most bacteria, viruses, and protozoa with proper use.

These methods reduce the risk if consuming expired bottled water cannot be avoided, but do not guarantee full disinfection. Avoid relying on expired water unless absolutely necessary.

Can you freeze bottled water to extend its shelf life?

Freezing is an effective way to extend the shelf life of unopened, commercially bottled water almost indefinitely. The water itself does not “expire” but freezing stops any chemical changes that affect taste over time.

To get the longest shelf life from frozen bottled water:

  • Leave bottles unopened before freezing.
  • Check “sell by” or “best by” date and freeze before that date.
  • Store at 0°F or below. Consistent temperature is important.
  • Use high-quality, food-grade plastic bottles meant for freezing and thawing.
  • Avoid freezing glass bottles which could crack and lead to contamination.
  • Leave 1-2″ of headspace in bottles since water expands when frozen.
  • To thaw: leave sealed bottles in fridge overnight before opening.

If frozen and thawed properly, bottled water can retain its fresh taste for 6-12 months past its sell-by date. Freezing is not recommended for flavored, carbonated, or mineral waters since texture and fizz may degrade.

Signs your bottled water has gone bad

Trust your senses when evaluating if bottled water may be spoiled. Signs to look out for include:

  • Appearance: Cloudiness, particles, slimy texture, or crystallized mineral deposits.
  • Smell: Strong medicinal, chemical, rotten egg, moldy, or stale odor.
  • Taste: Metallic, soapy, bitter, or sharp flavor.
  • Color: Darkening, yellow, or brown tint.
  • Bottle: Bulging, damaged, broken seal, mold, rust, or leaks.

If you observe any of these signs, it is safest to discard the bottled water instead of drinking it or trying to disinfect it.

Frequently asked questions

Does unopened bottled water ever go bad?

Properly stored, unopened bottled water has an indefinite shelf life, but may have quality/taste issues past 2-3 years. Discard if any odor, color change or contamination.

Can you drink water after the expiration date on the bottle?

Bottled water is still generally safe to drink up to 1 year after the expiration date, if it has been properly stored. Beyond 1 year, inspect carefully before drinking as bacterial growth is more likely.

Does bottled water expire unopened or opened?

Unopened, bottled water lasts 12-24 months past its date if stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it’s best within 6 months for plastic bottles and 2 years for glass. Heat and light make it expire faster.

Does purified water go bad?

Due to more intensive filtration, purified water lasts 9-12 months past its expiration date if stored properly. Signs it has gone bad are cloudiness, odor changes, or chemical taste.

Does bottled water get stronger tasting over time?

Bottled water may taste “stale” over time but not necessarily stronger. Plastic leaching chemicals into old water rarely occurs but can cause chemical-like taste. If taste seems off, it’s best to discard.

Can old plastic water bottles make you sick?

Bottles degrade over time, allowing more bacterial growth after 6+ months. Chemical leaching is unlikely with PET bottles if not exposed to heat/sunlight. Discard bottles with any odd smell or taste to be safe.

Does freezing water in plastic bottles make it last longer?

Freezing bottled water extends shelf life almost indefinitely if sealed and stored at 0°F or below. Must leave headspace for expansion and avoid glass bottles which can crack.

Conclusion

While bottled water does not necessarily “expire” on the date printed on the label, its quality and safety can deteriorate over time after opening. Storing bottles properly is key – keeping them in cool, dark conditions and away from heat and sunlight can maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. An unopened bottle may be good for up to 2 years past its date if well-preserved, while opened bottles are best within 6 months to 2 years depending on the type. Be on the lookout for any changes indicating contamination. Freezing water is an option to make it last even longer. In an emergency situation, consuming recently expired water is generally low risk for healthy adults, but take precautions. Ultimately, remember to trust your senses – if the water smells, tastes or looks off, err on the side of caution and avoid drinking it.

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