Does Sparkling Water Expire? If So, When? (Critical Details)
Ever wondered, Does sparkling water expire? Yes, it does, but not like food. Over time, the fizz fades, and the taste may change slightly, but it remains safe to drink. Unopened, it can last up to 18 months, and after opening, it’s best within a few days.
Keep reading for simple tips on how to enjoy your sparkling water at its best!
Key Points
- Sparkling water does expire but remains safe to drink.
- After opening, sparkling water loses its fizz in a few days.
- Storing opened sparkling water in the fridge helps preserve it.
- Unopened sparkling water can last up to 18 months.
- Flavored sparkling water can also expire but stays safe.
- Bubbly sparkling water expires in the same way as other brands.
Does Sparkling Water Expire? (Crucial Details)
Yes, sparkling water can expire, but not in the way food does. Over time, it loses its carbonation, making it go flat. The taste may also change slightly, but it remains safe to drink.
The “best by” date refers to the optimal time for the best taste and fizz. Even if unopened, sparkling water can last beyond the date, though the quality might decline.
Here’s a table about the expiration of different sparkling water brands:
| Sparkling Water Brand | Typical Expiration Date |
|---|---|
| LaCroix | 12 months |
| Perrier | 18 months |
| San Pellegrino | 18 months |
| Bubly | 12 months |
| Spindrift | 6–9 months |
| Polar | 12 months |
| Topo Chico | 12–18 months |
| Waterloo | 12 months |
| AHA | 12 months |
| Schweppes | 18–24 months |
Does Sparkling Water Go Bad After Opening?
After opening, sparkling water doesn’t spoil, but it does lose its fizz fairly quickly. Once exposed to air, the carbonation starts to escape, and within a day or two, it may taste flat. Even though it won’t harm you if you drink it, the taste won’t be as crisp or bubbly.
To keep it fresh, reseal the bottle or can tightly and store it in the fridge. Ideally, drink it within 1-2 days after opening for the best taste and experience.
Does Sparkling Water Expire in the Fridge?
Unopened sparkling water lasts longer in the fridge than on the counter, but it still doesn’t “expire” in the traditional sense. According to Nicholas J Russell, refrigeration extends the shelf life because the lowered temperature slows food-associated microorganisms.
Philip R. Ashurst has highlighted that once opened, beverages have a short shelf life. Once opened, sparkling water can stay good for up to three days in the fridge.
How Long Does Sparkling Water Expire?
Sparkling water doesn’t have a strict expiration date, but it can lose its fizz and taste over time. Unopened bottles can last for 12-18 months if stored properly in a cool, dry place. After that time, it may start to go flat, but it’s still safe to drink.
Once opened, sparkling water typically stays fresh for 1-3 days, especially if kept in the fridge and sealed tightly. Always check the “best by” date on the packaging to get the best experience.
How Long Does Sparkling Water Last Unopened?
Unopened sparkling water can last up to 12-18 months when stored in a cool, dark place. The “best by” date on the bottle is a good guideline, but the water doesn’t necessarily spoil after that time.
Over time, the carbonation may weaken, making the water taste flat, but it’s still safe to drink. As long as the bottle is sealed and hasn’t been exposed to extreme heat, the water will remain drinkable well past its expiration date, though it may not be as bubbly or fresh.
| Counter | Fridge | Freezer | |
| Opened | 1-2 Days | 2-3 Days | Not Recommended |
| Unopened | 12-18 Months | 12-18 Months | Not Recommended |
Just like sparkling water, Lucozade has an expiration date—learn more about it here for better storage tips.
What Happens if You Drink Expired Sparkling Water?
Drinking expired sparkling water won’t harm you. It might taste flat and less enjoyable, but it’s still safe. The main difference is the loss of carbonation and possibly some flavor.
Does Expired Sparkling Water Taste Different?
Yes, when sparkling water expires, the taste can change noticeably. The bubbles are what give sparkling water its crisp and refreshing taste. As it expires, the water loses these bubbles, leaving the taste feeling flat and dull.
The flavor, especially if it’s flavored sparkling water, may also weaken over time. This doesn’t mean the water is unsafe, but it might not be as enjoyable to drink. If the water has been stored in direct sunlight or high heat, it can also develop an off-taste, which is why proper storage is key.
Does Expired Sparkling Water Still Hydrate You?
Yes, expired sparkling water still hydrates you. Carbonation or flavor does not impact the hydrating properties of water. Even if the sparkling water has lost its fizz, it’s still just water and will provide the same level of hydration.
The only difference is in the drinking experience. Some people may find flat sparkling water less appealing, but it still does the job of keeping you hydrated just like plain water would.
Can You Use Expired Sparkling Water for Other Purposes?
Yes, even if sparkling water has gone flat, you can use it in various ways. Some people use flat sparkling water in baking to add a bit of lightness to cakes or pancakes. You can also use it to water your plants, as the minerals in sparkling water can be beneficial.
Another use is for cleaning purposes—carbonated water can help remove stains from fabrics or surfaces, even if it has lost its fizz. So, even after the water has expired, it doesn’t have to go to waste.
How to Know Sparkling Water Has Gone Bad?
You can tell if sparkling water has gone bad by checking for signs like loss of carbonation, off-taste, unpleasant smells, or changes in color. It’s rare for sparkling water to spoil, but these signs suggest it’s no longer good to drink.
Check the Expiration Date
One of the easiest ways to tell if sparkling water has gone bad is by checking the expiration or “best by” date on the packaging. While it’s generally safe to drink sparkling water past this date, it may not taste as good. The bubbles might be gone, and the flavor, if any, could be less pronounced.
The expiration date is a guideline for the best taste and experience. If it’s been months or years since the date passed, the water may have gone flat and lost some of its appeal, but it’s still safe to drink.
Loss of Bubbles
When sparkling water goes flat, it’s often a sign that it has expired or lost its freshness. The carbonation gives the water its signature fizz, and without it, the water may feel dull or stale in your mouth.
If you open a bottle or can of sparkling water and notice that it’s not as bubbly as it should be, it’s likely past its prime. Even if it’s safe to drink, you might not enjoy it as much as a fresh, fizzy bottle.
Off-Taste or Smell
Another sign that sparkling water has gone bad is if it has an off-taste or unusual smell. Fresh sparkling water should taste clean, crisp, and refreshing. If it tastes stale, sour, or metallic, it’s likely no longer good.
Similarly, if the water has an odd smell, it might have been contaminated or exposed to something that affected its quality. While these changes are rare, they’re good indicators that you should probably toss the bottle and grab a fresh one.
Cloudy or Discolored Appearance
Chapter 12 of my favorite book, The Stability and Shelf Life of Food, is all about beverages. Sparkling water should be clear and colorless. If you notice any cloudiness or discoloration, it’s a sign that something has gone wrong.
This could happen if the water has been exposed to extreme temperatures or contaminants.
A cloudy or discolored appearance is a strong indicator that you shouldn’t drink it. Always check the appearance of your water before drinking, especially if it’s been sitting around for a long time.
Strange Packaging Changes
Sometimes, the packaging itself can give you a clue that the sparkling water has gone bad. If the bottle or can looks bloated, dented, or damaged in any way, it’s a sign that something might be off inside.
While this is rare, especially with properly stored sparkling water, it’s still something to watch out for. A bloated or damaged bottle could mean that the water has been exposed to heat or air, which could affect its taste and quality.
Does Bubly Sparkling Water Expire?
Yes, Bubly sparkling water, like other sparkling waters, has a “best by” date. This date is not an expiration date for safety but for quality. After this date, the carbonation in Bubly might weaken, and the flavor could become less vibrant.
However, Bubly remains safe to drink even after the date passes, as long as the can or bottle is unopened and properly stored. Once you open Bubly sparkling water, it’s best to consume it within a couple of days to enjoy its fizz and fresh taste.
Does Flavored Sparkling Water Expire?
Flavored sparkling water does expire in the sense that its flavor and bubbles may weaken over time, especially past the “best by” date. The water itself remains safe to drink as long as it’s been stored properly.
However, the flavorings can lose their potency, making the drink less enjoyable.
The carbonation also tends to decrease as time passes. If the bottle or can is opened, the water should be consumed within a few days to maintain the best flavor and bubbles. Always check the date and store it in a cool, dark place to preserve the quality.
How to Maximize the Shelf Life of Sparkling Water?
To maximize the shelf life of sparkling water, store it in a cool, dark place, keep it tightly sealed, and avoid exposure to heat. Proper storage ensures it stays fizzy and fresh longer.
Store in a Cool Place
According to the Trends in Beverage Packaging Volume 16, shelf life can be affected by the heat. Both heat and sunlight can cause the carbonation in sparkling water to escape faster, making the water go flat. To keep your sparkling water fresh for as long as possible, always store it in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard.
Direct sunlight or high temperatures can not only affect the carbonation but also alter the flavor, especially if it’s flavored sparkling water. By keeping it out of the light and heat, you’ll help preserve its taste and fizz for longer.
Keep It Tightly Sealed
Once you open a bottle or can of sparkling water, make sure to reseal it tightly. This prevents the carbonation from escaping too quickly. For bottles, screw the cap on tightly after each use. For cans, transferring the remaining water into an airtight container can help keep the fizz longer.
By keeping it sealed, you can enjoy your sparkling water for a few days after opening, with minimal loss of bubbles.
Store Opened Water in the Fridge
After opening sparkling water, always store it in the fridge. The cooler temperature helps preserve the bubbles, keeping the water fizzy and refreshing for longer.
While it’s best to drink it within a day or two, keeping it in the fridge can extend its freshness by up to three days. If left out at room temperature, the water can lose its fizz much more quickly, so refrigeration is key.
Avoid Shaking the Bottle or Can
Shaking sparkling water before opening can cause a lot of carbonation to escape, leaving the water flat. To maximize the shelf life of your sparkling water, always handle the bottle or can gently.
If you’ve accidentally shaken it, let it sit for a few minutes before opening to allow the bubbles to settle. This helps preserve the fizz, so your sparkling water stays bubbly longer.
Don’t Freeze Sparkling Water
Freezing sparkling water can cause the bottle or can to burst, which will not only ruin the container but also make the water go flat. Carbonated water expands when frozen, leading to potential leaks or explosions.
If you want to chill your sparkling water quickly, place it in the fridge or an ice bucket instead. Keeping it out of the freezer ensures the bubbles stay intact and the packaging remains safe.
Use a Fizz Saver or Carbonation Cap
There are special caps and devices designed to help preserve the fizz in sparkling water after opening. These products, often called fizz savers or carbonation caps, create an airtight seal that helps keep the bubbles from escaping.
By using one of these, you can extend the life of your opened sparkling water by a few more days, allowing you to enjoy the drink without it going flat too quickly.
Conclusion
To sum up:
- Sparkling water loses its fizz over time but is still safe to drink.
- After opening, drink it within a few days for the best bubbles.
- Unopened sparkling water bottles last 12-18 months if stored properly.
- You should store opened bottles in the fridge to keep them fresh longer.
- Look for changes in taste, smell, or bubbles to know if it’s expired.
So, even if your sparkling water loses some fizz, it’s still good to go for hydration and refreshment!
