Why Proper Storage is Vital for Kangen Water
Kangen water is known for its high alkaline pH and its negative Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP), which indicates its antioxidant properties. These characteristics are delicate and can be affected by external factors. Exposure to air, light, and heat causes oxidation, which reduces the water's negative ORP and lowers its pH level, making it less potent over time. For this reason, simply bottling and leaving the water out on a counter will not preserve its unique qualities. Proper storage is the only way to extend the lifespan of these beneficial properties beyond a few hours.
The Enemies of Kangen Water's Potency
- Air Exposure: When Kangen water is exposed to air, it absorbs carbon dioxide, which can quickly lower its alkaline pH. This process, known as carbonation, forms carbonic acid and neutralizes the water's alkalinity.
- Light and Heat: Direct sunlight and heat accelerate the oxidation process, causing the negative ORP to degrade faster. Storing the water in a cool, dark place is critical for preservation.
- Reactive Containers: Certain materials, particularly metal and some plastics, can react with the water, causing its beneficial properties to dissipate rapidly. Choosing the right container is paramount.
Choosing the Right Container
The container you use is arguably the most important factor in preserving the quality of your Kangen water. Different materials offer varying levels of protection against air and light.
Top Container Choices for Kangen Water
- Glass Bottles: Glass is inert and non-reactive, making it the ideal choice for storing ionized water. It does not leach any chemicals into the water and effectively seals it from air exposure. Dark or violet glass offers the added benefit of blocking light, providing even better protection.
- Vacuum-Sealed Stainless Steel: For a more durable and portable option, vacuum-sealed stainless steel bottles are excellent. They are airtight and opaque, protecting the water from both air and light. High-quality food-grade stainless steel is non-reactive and safe for storing alkaline water.
- BPA-Free Plastic: If you must use plastic, opt for high-quality, BPA-free hard plastic containers. These are less permeable than regular plastic and are a decent option for short-term storage. Always fill them to the very top to minimize air exposure.
Optimal Storage Conditions and Practices
Beyond the container, how and where you store your Kangen water significantly impacts its longevity. Following a few simple guidelines can help you get the most out of every batch.
Best Practices for Kangen Water Storage
- Refrigerate Immediately: Storing Kangen water in the refrigerator helps maintain its potency by keeping it cool and dark. The cooler temperature slows down the degradation of the water's properties.
- Fill to the Brim: When pouring Kangen water into a storage container, fill it as close to the top as possible to eliminate any air gaps. Less air means less carbon dioxide can be absorbed, preserving the pH longer.
- Keep it Dark: Store containers away from direct sunlight or bright artificial light. A refrigerator, pantry, or a dark-colored glass bottle can provide the necessary protection.
- Consume Quickly: The benefits of fresh Kangen water are most potent immediately after production. Most sources recommend drinking stored water within 1 to 5 days, though some containers can extend this slightly. The antioxidant value, or ORP, degrades the quickest, so if you are prioritizing this, drink it as fresh as possible.
Comparison Table: Kangen Water Storage Containers
| Container Type | Pros | Cons | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glass | Inert, non-reactive; easy to clean; preserves pH well; can be opaque (dark glass) | Breakable; heavy; transparent glass offers no light protection | At-home storage, daily use |
| Vacuum-Sealed Stainless Steel | Durable, portable; protects from air and light; maintains temperature | Can be more expensive; can be heavier than plastic | On-the-go, travel |
| BPA-Free Hard Plastic | Lightweight, portable; durable | More permeable than glass or stainless steel; not for long-term storage | Short-term storage (1-2 days), convenience |
| Copper | Can infuse trace amounts of copper; antimicrobial properties | Some claim it can raise pH; not widely tested for Kangen water storage | Not a recommended storage method for preserving Kangen properties |
Conclusion: The Best Way to Store Kangen Water
The best way to store Kangen water is by prioritizing freshness and minimizing exposure to air, light, and reactive materials. For optimal preservation, transfer the water to an airtight, opaque, non-reactive container like a dark glass or vacuum-sealed stainless steel bottle. Store it immediately in the refrigerator and consume it within a few days to get the maximum benefit from its alkaline pH and antioxidant properties. While plastic can be used for convenience, it is a less effective choice for long-term storage. By following these simple but crucial steps, you can ensure that you're enjoying Kangen water at its full potential. For further reading on water quality and storage, consider consulting resources like the Utah Department of Environmental Quality's Home Water Storage for an Emergency guide.
The Proper Storage of Your Kangen Water
Storing Kangen water properly is key to maintaining its benefits. Use airtight containers made of glass or high-quality, BPA-free plastic and store them in a cool, dark place like a refrigerator to preserve the water's alkaline pH and negative ORP. For the best results, consume the water within 4-5 days of production to ensure maximum potency.
The Best Container Choice
Glass is widely considered the best material for storing Kangen water because it is non-reactive and does not leach chemicals. A vacuum-sealed stainless steel bottle is also a superior choice, especially for portability, as it blocks light and prevents air exposure.
The Ideal Storage Environment
To protect Kangen water from potency loss, store it in a cool, dark place, such as a refrigerator. Avoid direct sunlight and heat, which can speed up the degradation of its beneficial properties.
The Importance of Air Exclusion
Minimize the water's contact with air by filling the storage container to the very top. This prevents the water from absorbing carbon dioxide, which can lower its pH and reduce its alkalinity over time.
The Longevity of Stored Kangen Water
For drinking water, Kangen water should be consumed as fresh as possible. While it can maintain its pH for up to a week if refrigerated, its antioxidant ORP value decreases much faster, often within 24 hours. Aim to drink it within 1 to 5 days for optimal benefits.
Avoiding Poor Storage Choices
Never store Kangen water in reactive metal containers like aluminum, as they can react with the water and alter its properties. For drinking purposes, opt for glass or high-quality plastic over standard, permeable plastics that allow gasses to escape.
Monitoring Water Quality
To ensure your stored Kangen water remains potent, you can periodically test its pH levels using pH strips. A noticeable drop in alkalinity or a flat taste can indicate that its beneficial properties have diminished.
