Submitted by notsurewhereinfrom t3_11dat5e in explainlikeimfive
Comments
[deleted] t1_ja7i8z1 wrote
[removed]
SkiG13 t1_ja7i98x wrote
Plastic from the bottles leach into the water overtime. Essentially, the expiration date is the estimation when the concentration of plastics in the water reaches a point where it’s no longer safe for human consumption.
[deleted] t1_ja7kwvj wrote
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notsurewhereinfrom OP t1_ja7ld3u wrote
Thank you!
bwainwright t1_ja7ld3l wrote
It doesn't.
The date is for the plastic bottles they come in. Chemicals from the plastic will eventually leech into the water over longer periods of time. As far as I know, this isn't dangerous, but it can 'taint' the water affecting the taste, which is why it's a best before date.
Worth noting a 'best before' date is just a recommendation - the product is still safe to consume after this date, it's just that it's likely past its optimum condition.
However, products with 'use by' dates should not generally be consumed past this date as they can start to be dangerous for consumption - ie, fresh non-pasteurised foods can grow harmful mould/bacteria.
iseedeff t1_ja7m9es wrote
I cant say it much better, expect it also dulls the taste some, and in my thoughts they should bann bottled water.
thehumble_1 t1_ja7nlg3 wrote
Food companies have to test their product to make sure it's shelf stable. The companies have no reason to test their product out past several months to a year. They have to put a date on food that they have actually tested, so even water gets a best by date.
Flair_Helper t1_ja7o853 wrote
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AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAVAAA t1_ja7oadd wrote
The plastic dissolving in the water accumulates in the body. The effects of microplastics in the human body are underinvestigated, but it seems to reduce fertility
shouldco t1_ja7i5oq wrote
Everything gets a best by date also best by dates need to be within a certain length of time even though things like caned food are fine as long as the can is still sealed.