It is recommended to drink about 2 liters or 8 glasses of water a day, although the amount of liquid may vary depending on the climate, age, physical activity or state of health.
From the Spanish Food Safety Agency (AESAN) they explain that In the market it is possible to find 3 types of bottled water: natural mineral waters (AMN), spring waters (AM) and prepared drinking waters.
The first share underground origin and content of minerals and trace elements, as well as an original purity, and differ only by the chemical constancy of the natural minerals with respect to those from the spring. The prepared drinkables can have any type of origin and are subjected to the authorized physicochemical treatments to have the desired drinkability.
Does bottled water expire?
The short answer is no: bottled water does not expireand the date that you can see on the packaging is an indication of preferential consumption, which indicates the period until which you can enjoy the water in optimal conditions, without odor or flavor alterations.
In fact, a report issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that The consumption of bottled water after the date of preferential consumption does not imply any risk to human health. When properly stored and handled, water can be stored almost indefinitely.
That risks involves drinking then from an old bottle? The chemicals that can be released from the plastic, especially if it is exposed to heat, and an unpleasant experience, since sometimes you can perceive a bad taste.
This happens because the plastic in the bottles is somewhat permeable, which can allowe gases from the air seep in and change the taste and smell of the water, according to International Bottled Water Association.
From LiveStrong point to the degradation of plastic packaging and the main toxins that can be released into the water.
The elements that have been found the most are traces of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Research suggests that PET could act as an endocrine disruptoror linked to hormonal disturbances, fertility problems, and increased cancer risk, although more human studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Although phthalates and other chemicals can leach into water from PET bottles – especially when exposed to high temperatures or stored for a long period of time – a study published in November 2021 in Natural Science in Archeology concluded that his concentration was not high enough to pose a threat to people.
Another point to consider is the intake of microplastics and chemical substances such as bisphenol A. (BPA) in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics.
A study carried out in August examined the levels of BPA in the blood among 1,093 people and found that people with higher levels of BPA in their bloodstreams also had changes in lipid markers, including increases in triglycerides and LDL cholesterol (bad), a risk factor for heart disease.
many manufacturers have eliminated BPA of their products for this reason.
In short, if you let a lot of time pass, even if the water itself does not expire, you will be able to perceive changes in its composition: In general, it is preferable to consume bottled mineral water within 3 years from the date of packaging when it is made of glass, and in 1 or 2 years in the case of plastic bottles.
