Does Mold Form in Opened Jugs of Water?

According to the National Association of Home Builders' Household Mold Resource Center website, in order for mold to grow, it must have access to moisture, warmth and food. Given improper storage of opened jugs of water in high-humidity environments, mold can proliferate.

Identification

• According to Barbara L. Marteney and Kristin Safran in Water and Wastes Digest, mold is generally identified in an opened jug or bottle of water by "taste, odor or appearance."

Effects

• According to the Environmental Protection Agency the most common effects of mold exposure are generally respiratory, whether allergenic or asthmatic, in nature.

Prevention/Solution

• The EPA says mold can and will grow on any surface provided it has access to water and air, which can make prevention difficult. The best course of action in preventing the growth of mold in opened bottles and jugs of water would be to control the humidity or the type of moisture that the water is exposed to. Store opened jugs of water in cold, dry environments.

Warning

• If you suspect that an opened or unopened jug or bottle of water may be contaminated by mold, it would be in your best interest to not drink and dispose of the water.