Also known as seltzer and club soda, this bubbly water gained popularity in the 19th century. Coming from natural springs in the United Kingdom and Italy, the water was thought to have healing properties.
The springs were thought to cure ailments like arthritis and dermatitis. As people began flocking to the natural waters, others saw profit. Companies like San Pellegrino began bottling the fizzy H20.
Today, sparkling water has never been more popular. As more people turn away from syrupy, sugar-laden soda, more companies are offering seemingly endless varieties of the product.
It has become a staple of many homes. But exactly how long should it stay in your house? Does sparkling water expire or go bad?
As long as the unopened containers are undamaged and stored properly, sparkling water can stay fresh for at least 12-18 months past its “best by” date. It can remain safe to drink for years after that.
The “best by” date does not mean that the water has gone bad or is unsafe to drink. Simply, it’s the date the manufacturer believes the beverage will be at its “premium quality.”
Once opened, sparkling water will usually last 2-3 days if refrigerated.
What Is The Best Way To Store Sparkling Water?
If you want to get the best bubbles out of your sparkling water, follow these tips:
- keep cans and especially bottles out of direct sunlight
- store in a cool, dry place (between 50-70 degrees)
- store where the containers won’t suffer damage (never keep them in your car)
- rotate (put older cans in the front so they get used first)
- store opened cans or bottles in the fridge
- never place cans or bottles in the freezer
To expand on the last point, do not keep your sparkling water (or any other carbonated beverages) in freezing temperatures. During the winter, make sure the containers are brought inside.
Extremely cold temperatures can cause cans and bottles to explode. At best you have a mess, but exploding cans and bottles can also cause injury.
When Should You Throw Sparkling Water Away?
Just because unopened sparkling water can last and be safe long after its expiration date, does not mean it will last forever. Over time, the taste of the water may change and it may not be to your liking. This still doesn’t mean it’s unsafe, just not enjoyable or refreshing.
However, there are times when sparkling water should be tossed. Unopened cans that are rusted, badly dented, or bulging should not be consumed.
When you open it, if there is an odd smell, discoloration, or the water seems to have things floating in it, do not drink it.
What Lasts Longer, Cans Or Bottles?
In the realm of sparkling water, cans tend to be heartier and have more of a shelf life. This is because aluminum can totally block out all light. Direct light can degrade the bubbles.
Also, cans are airtight, so there’s no chance of air getting in. Bottles are very well sealed, but over time tiny bits of air can sneak in.
How Can You Keep The Bubbles Alive Longer In Sparkling Water?
The whole point of sparkling water is those refreshing bubbles. While flat sparkling water is perfectly safe and can still quench your thirst, it’s just not the same.
Here are a few ways to keep your water fizzy longer.
1. Keep both opened and unopened water in the refrigerator. The gas bubbles will stay in the liquid longer if the containers are cold. Place them in the back of the fridge if possible.
2. Once opened, you can keep the fizz longer by pouring the water into a cup or container that has a removable lid. Only remove the lid when taking a sip.
Can Mold Grow In Sparkling Water?
Mold cannot grow in carbonated water. In fact, mold typically does not grow in any pure water. Specific nutrients must be present or added to the water for mold to grow.
Can You Drink Sparkling Water That Has Sat Out Overnight?
It is perfectly safe to drink sparkling water that sits out through the night. It will probably be flat and not taste great, but it won’t harm you.
Is Sparkling Water Good For You?
You may have heard that carbonated beverages are bad for your teeth and bones. That the carbonic acid used will erode enamel and wear away calcium in the bones. The good news for seltzer lovers is that it only refers to carbonated drinks that contain sugar.
The only concern may be bloating. The gasses in sparkling water can build up and cause some discomfort in certain people. If this concerns you, it’s best to go easy on the bubbly stuff until you know how your body tolerates it.
Is There A Difference Between Sparkling Mineral Water, Seltzer, and Club Soda?
Though most people would be hard-pressed to tell (even the president of Perrier couldn’t), there is a difference in these 3 types of water. But mostly it’s just in their source.
-Sparkling mineral water comes from a natural spring where there’s enough underground fizz happening to give the water natural carbonation. San Pellegrino, Perrier, and Gerolsteiner are examples.
-Seltzer is typically filtered tap water that adds processed carbonation. LaCroix, bubly, and Waterloo are a few brands.
-Club Soda is the same as seltzer but with added mineral salts. Schweppes and Canada Dry are two of the most popular.
