A damaged seal does not automatically mean a bottle is unsafe, but it should never be ignored. The right response depends on whether the damage is cosmetic, occurred during shipping or suggests the closure has been opened.
Inspect before opening
- Check for leaking liquid, a loose cap, broken glass or an unusual fill level.
- Photograph the package, bottle, seal and shipping label.
- Keep all packaging until the retailer or carrier responds.
- Do not attempt to glue, heat-shrink or otherwise “repair” a tamper-evident seal.
When to contact the retailer
Contact customer service promptly if the seal is split, the cap turns freely, liquid has leaked or the bottle appears opened. Include the order number and clear images. Retailers may need evidence to investigate carrier damage or determine the appropriate resolution.
When not to consume the bottle
Do not drink from a bottle if there is broken glass, an unknown substance, an unusual odor, visible contamination or evidence that the closure was removed. A collectible bottle may also lose value when its original seal is compromised.
How to reduce shipping damage
Order early, use an address where an eligible adult can receive the package and inspect the shipment immediately. For gifts, avoid removing protective packaging until the bottle reaches its final destination.
Review current delivery guidance in the QLS shipping FAQ.
Sources
General food-package tamper guidance was checked against the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s consumer advice on package tampering. Bottle-specific concerns should be handled directly with the retailer or manufacturer.
