They said “the water doesn’t have an expiration date, the plastic bottle does” so how come honey that comes in a plastic bottle doesn’t expire?

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They said “the water doesn’t have an expiration date, the plastic bottle does” so how come honey that comes in a plastic bottle doesn’t expire?

In: Chemistry

15 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

It may depend on the plastic. The plastic used for single use bottled water are single use plastic (generally PET) and although it has good durability, it does not age well, especially when heated.

There are some rumors that it release carcinogens to the water when heated (or apparently freezed according to [this](https://www.cancer.ca/en/prevention-and-screening/reduce-cancer-risk/make-informed-decisions/myths-and-controversies/disposable-water-bottles/?region=on)). The research on this subject is controversial but if the honey is in a different version of plastic container (probable because lower quantity and higher price may mean higher margin for container cost), the producer may be more confident with the plastic not releasing chemicals with health effects.

Generaly plastic containers have some sort of marking (on the bottom with a number inside a mark) stating the material. You may compare the properties of these materials if they are different.

In addition to that, water is a good solvent and may help if there is a possible chemical reaction with the walls of the bottle.

Lastly, a water bottle is more prone to be used after refilled, as plastic containers are generally a welcoming place for bacteria, the producer may discourage the users from refilling and reusing the bottle for a long time.

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