Is It Safe to Drink High-Temperature Mineral Water Left in a Car?

[MacAyla]

Unopened bottled mineral water left in a car for a short period, even after being exposed to intense sunlight, will not release harmful substances and remains safe to drink. More details about mineral water in high-temperature car environments are as follows: 1. Material: Prolonged exposure of mineral water to high temperatures in a car can be harmful. Most mineral water and beverage bottles currently use PET material. This is one of the most common plastic materials (scientifically known as polyethylene terephthalate). PET has a heat resistance of up to 70 degrees Celsius. Above this temperature, the material softens, making it easier for oxygen to penetrate the bottle. This can result in the mineral water's shelf life ending prematurely. 2. Bacteria: There are approximately 5,000 bacteria (non-pathogenic) per cubic meter of air. Over time, these bacteria can multiply and affect the hygiene of the drinking water. Generally, opened mineral water will have a significantly higher bacterial count after more than 48 hours. The high-temperature environment inside a car can accelerate bacterial growth, meaning the longer the bottle remains opened, the more bacteria will proliferate.