Hello, I'm an expert in environmental health and safety. Let's talk about what could happen if you drink expired bottled water.

Firstly, it's important to understand that the expiration date on bottled water is not a strict deadline. It's more of a guideline from the manufacturer to ensure the water is at its best quality. After the expiration date, the water may not taste as fresh, and the taste could deteriorate over time. However, the water is generally still safe to drink unless it has been stored improperly or the bottle is damaged.

If the bottled water has expired and there are no visible signs of contamination, such as cloudiness, an off smell, or algae growth, it's likely safe to consume. However, if you notice any of these signs, it's best to err on the side of caution and not drink the water.

The main risk with drinking expired bottled water is the potential for bacterial growth, especially if the bottle has been opened and not properly sealed. Once the seal is broken, the water is exposed to the environment and any bacteria present can multiply.

In summary, drinking expired bottled water that has been stored properly and shows no signs of contamination is generally not harmful. However, it's always best to use your senses to check for any changes in the water before consumption.

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After long-term storage, the bottled water's appearance, smell or taste may change somewhat, but the water will still be safe to consume, says the FDA. And while bottled water manufacturers are permitted to put expiration dates on their labels, these dates are meant to be indicators of quality, not safety.read more >>