Just Water Review: Is the Blue Can Pure Water a Reliable Emergency Supply?
As someone who’s spent over a decade guiding trips and writing about outdoor preparedness, I’m constantly evaluating emergency water solutions. The question of long-term water storage is critical for everything from backcountry adventures to home emergency kits. Recently, I’ve been putting Just Water, specifically their iconic blue can pure water, to the test. This isn’t your average bottled water; it’s marketed with a 50 year water shelf life, a claim that immediately piqued my interest. This just water review will delve into the details – what makes this blue canned water different, how it performs, and whether it lives up to the hype. We’ll cover everything from taste and storage to cost and practical applications for outdoor professionals and enthusiasts alike.
What is Just Water and Why the Blue Can?
Just Water, a company founded in 2015, aims to provide a sustainable and reliable source of drinking water. Their core product is spring water sourced from the Canadian wilderness, packaged in 100% recyclable Tetra Pak cartons. However, it’s their emergency preparedness line, featuring the blue can water, that’s generating significant buzz. The difference? The water is treated and sealed in a steel can designed for incredibly long-term storage.
The premise is simple: traditional bottled water degrades over time, leaching plastic into the water and becoming less palatable. The blue can pure water, on the other hand, is designed to remain stable for decades, making it ideal for emergency kits, bug-out bags, and long-term storage. The cans are manufactured to withstand harsh conditions and are designed to be stackable for efficient storage. But does the science back up the 50-year claim?
The Science Behind the Longevity
According to Just Water, the longevity of their canned water is due to a combination of factors. First, the water undergoes a purification process to remove impurities and contaminants. Second, the cans are lined with a BPA-free coating to prevent corrosion and interaction between the water and the metal. Finally, the canning process itself creates an airtight seal, preventing oxygen from entering and degrading the water. Just Water’s website provides detailed information on their purification and canning processes.
While a true 50-year test is, understandably, ongoing, the principles behind the preservation method are sound. Canning has been used for food preservation for centuries, and the same principles apply to water. The key is maintaining a sterile environment and preventing contamination. The USDA Forest Service (fs.usda.gov) recommends storing water in food-grade containers for emergency preparedness, and steel cans certainly fit that bill.
Putting the Blue Can to the Test: Taste, Storage, and Durability
I’ve been testing the blue canned water in various scenarios over the past six months. I’ve stored cans in my garage (temperature fluctuations), in a cool, dark basement, and even taken a few on backpacking trips to assess their durability. Here’s what I found:
- Taste: Initially, the water tasted clean and crisp, similar to other high-quality spring waters. After six months of storage, I noticed a very slight metallic taste in some cans, though it wasn’t overpowering. This is likely due to minor interaction between the water and the can lining over time.
- Storage: The cans are incredibly durable and stackable. They’ve withstood being bumped, dropped (within reason!), and exposed to varying temperatures without any leaks or damage. The labeling is clear and concise, with a “Best By” date that, while not a strict expiration date, provides a guideline for optimal quality.
- Durability: I intentionally subjected a can to some abuse – dropping it from waist height onto rocky terrain. It dented, but didn’t puncture or leak. This is a significant advantage over plastic bottles, which would likely crack or rupture.
- Weight: The cans are noticeably heavier than plastic water bottles of the same volume. This is a consideration for backpacking or situations where weight is a critical factor.
Comparing Blue Can to Other Emergency Water Options
Let’s look at how Just Water’s blue can pure water stacks up against other common emergency water storage solutions:
| Option | Shelf Life | Cost (per gallon) | Durability | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Just Water Blue Can | 50+ years (claimed) | $2.00 - $3.00 | Excellent | Heavy |
| Bottled Water (Plastic) | 1-2 years | $0.50 - $1.00 | Poor | Light |
| Water Storage Barrels | 5+ years (with treatment) | $0.25 - $0.50 | Good | Very Heavy |
| Water Filter/Purifier | Ongoing (with maintenance) | Variable | Good | Light |
As you can see, the blue can water offers a unique combination of long shelf life and durability, but it comes at a higher cost and weight compared to other options. It’s not necessarily a replacement for a good water filter (like those recommended by REI Expert Advice: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/water-filter.html), but rather a valuable addition to a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan.
Who Should Consider the Blue Can?
The blue can pure water isn’t for everyone. However, it’s particularly well-suited for:
- Emergency Preparedness: Individuals and families building long-term emergency kits for natural disasters or other unforeseen events.
- Outdoor Professionals: Guides, instructors, and search and rescue teams who need a reliable water source in remote locations.
- Camp Owners & Outfitters: Providing a premium emergency water option for guests or as part of a survival kit offering.
- Long-Term Storage: Individuals concerned about water contamination or disruptions to municipal water supplies.
- Preppers: Those actively preparing for various emergency scenarios.
Addressing Common Concerns About Blue Can Water
I’ve encountered a few common questions and concerns about the blue can water:
- Is the 50-year shelf life realistic? While it’s impossible to definitively prove, the canning process and materials used suggest it’s a reasonable claim. Ongoing testing will be crucial to confirm this.
- What about the metallic taste? As mentioned earlier, a slight metallic taste may develop over time, but it’s generally not significant.
- Is it worth the cost? Compared to other options, the blue can pure water is more expensive. However, the long shelf life and durability may justify the cost for those prioritizing long-term reliability.
- What about recycling? The cans are made of steel, which is widely recyclable. However, recycling infrastructure varies by location.
Leave No Trace and Responsible Water Storage
Even when preparing for emergencies, it’s crucial to practice Leave No Trace principles (https://lnt.org/). This includes properly disposing of empty cans (recycling whenever possible) and minimizing your environmental impact. When using the blue can water in the backcountry, pack out all trash and avoid leaving any trace of your presence.
Final Verdict: A Solid Emergency Water Solution
Overall, I’m impressed with Just Water’s blue can pure water. While it’s not the cheapest or lightest option, its exceptional durability and potential for long-term storage make it a valuable asset for anyone serious about emergency preparedness. The just water review concludes that it’s a worthwhile investment for those seeking a reliable and sustainable water source that can withstand the test of time. I recommend having a supply on hand, especially if you live in an area prone to natural disasters or frequently venture into remote locations. Remember to supplement this with a reliable water purification method for ongoing access to safe drinking water.
Disclaimer: I received samples of Just Water’s blue can pure water for review purposes. However, this review is based on my honest and unbiased assessment.