Turns into poison: Scientists have investigated when bottled water can become dangerous

Carrying a water bottle with you in hot weather is a good habit, but it is important to remember the potential danger if the water is exposed to sunlight.

This is reported by IFLScience.

A recent study by Chinese scientists has shown that plastic bottles left in the sun begin to decompose and emit various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Some of these compounds, such as n-hexadecane, are carcinogens and can pose a health hazard with long-term exposure.

Scientists exposed six types of plastic water bottles to ultraviolet radiation and sunlight. As a result, a complex mixture of VOCs was found, including alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, aldehydes and acids.

Although a single sip of water from such a bottle does not pose a serious danger, regular consumption can lead to an accumulation of health risks. Scientists agree that the risk is relatively small because the amount of chemicals released from the bottle is small.

To avoid consuming potentially toxic chemicals, researchers recommend keeping your water bottle in the shade.