Short Answer: If you accidentally drink expired pomegranate juice, you may get sick from the bacteria or the chemical changes in the juice.
Pomegranate juice is a tart and tasty drink that is made from the seeds of the pomegranate fruit.
Pomegranate juice contains antioxidants, vitamin C, and other nutrients that may benefit your health.
However, pomegranate juice can also go bad if it is not stored properly or if it is past its expiration date.
If you accidentally drink expired pomegranate juice, you may experience stomach upset, diarrhea, gas, headache, nausea, or vomiting.
This is because the juice may have been contaminated by pathogens or spoilage bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses.
The juice may also have lost its flavor, color, texture, and nutrients due to oxidation and fermentation.
The bacteria in the juice can multiply rapidly at room temperature or if the juice is not sealed tightly.
The oxidation and fermentation can occur when the juice is exposed to air and light.
These processes can change the chemical composition of the juice and make it rancid or bitter.
It is quite uncommon to drink expired pomegranate juice, as most people would notice the signs of spoilage before consuming it.
Some obvious signs of bad pomegranate juice are mold, foul odor, sour taste, or fizzy texture.
If you see or smell any of these signs, you should discard the juice immediately.
You can prevent or treat the symptoms of drinking expired pomegranate juice by following these steps:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and flush out the toxins from your body.
- Take over-the-counter medications such as antacids, anti-diarrheals, or pain relievers to ease your discomfort.
- Consult your doctor if your symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by fever, blood in stool, or dehydration.
- To avoid drinking expired pomegranate juice, you should always check the expiration date or best-by date on the label before buying or opening the juice. You should also store the juice in a cool and dark place, such as the refrigerator, and keep it tightly closed after every use. You should consume the juice within a week of opening it, or freeze it for longer storage.
Finally, remember, pomegranate juice is a delicious and healthy beverage, but only if it is fresh and safe to drink.
Always be careful and cautious when consuming any food or drink that may have gone bad.