If you’re like many people, you may have heard about the benefits of drinking alkaline water and are wondering how long you can safely store it for future use. The truth is that storing alkaline water correctly can help ensure its purity and quality over time. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about storing alkaline water, including the best practices and how long you can safely store it.
How Alkaline Water Works
Before diving into storage concerns, let’s first discuss what makes alkaline water unique. Alkaline water has a higher pH level than regular water, which gives it a slightly different taste and is believed to have some health benefits, such as reducing acid reflux and improving digestion.
The pH level of alkaline water is determined by the addition of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals help to neutralize acid in the stomach and promote healthy digestion. Additionally, some studies suggest that alkaline water may have antioxidant properties that could help protect against cellular damage.
How Long Can I Safely Store Alkaline Water?
Now that we know a bit more about what makes alkaline water unique, let’s turn our attention to storage concerns. The good news is that alkaline water can be stored for up to six months in a cool, dry place with minimal exposure to light. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind when storing alkaline water to ensure its safety and quality:
- Keep it in a dark place: Light can cause alkaline water to degrade over time, so it’s important to store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent the pH level from dropping too low or becoming contaminated with harmful bacteria.
- Don’t let it get too hot: High temperatures can also cause alkaline water to degrade, so it’s important to keep it in a cool place, ideally between 35 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help prevent the pH level from dropping too low or becoming contaminated with harmful bacteria.
- Use airtight containers: To protect alkaline water from airborne contaminants and odors, it’s best to store it in airtight containers. Glass jars or bottles work well, but make sure they are clean and dry before use.
- Avoid using metal containers: Metal containers can corrode over time, which could leach harmful chemicals into the water. It’s best to avoid using metal containers for storing alkaline water.
- Check the expiration date regularly: Even with proper storage, alkaline water will eventually expire. Check the expiration date regularly and discard any water that has gone bad.
Can I Drink Alkaline Water from a Tap?
While you can certainly store alkaline water in your own home, it’s worth considering whether you should buy pre-packaged alkaline water from a tap. There are many brands of alkaline water on the market, and some people prefer to drink it from a tap for convenience. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when buying pre-packaged alkaline water:
- Check the label carefully: Look for brands that have been tested and certified by independent organizations like the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). This will help ensure that the water is safe to drink and free from contaminants.
- Store it properly: Even if you’re buying pre-packaged alkaline water, it’s still important to store it correctly.
