College Student Fears She’s Been ‘Poisoned’ While Using Copper Water Bottle After Making One Unknown Mistake (Exclusive)

**Student Issues Warning After Scary Copper Bottle Experience**

Kendall Dusenberry, an 18-year-old student at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, recently faced a frightening incident that has prompted her to raise awareness about the potential dangers of using copper water bottles with acidic beverages. Dusenberry’s ordeal began when she mixed vitamin C powder into her drink, leading to an unsettling metallic taste that left her worried about her health.

The incident unfolded on campus during a regular school day. Dusenberry had been using her sister’s copper water bottle for nearly a month without issue. That particular day, in an effort to soothe a sore throat, she added an unusually high amount of vitamin C powder to the bottle before heading to ballet class. Hours later, she recognised a strong metallic flavour and began to feel uneasy.

“I had no idea copper could react with anything acidic,” Dusenberry stated. Despite brushing her teeth multiple times, the taste persisted. Concerned for her wellbeing, she contacted Poison Control and sought advice at her campus health centre.

Feeling increasingly anxious, she described her experience on TikTok, where she expressed disbelief that such a danger existed. “I almost DIED in the middle of the school day yesterday because nobody told me how DANGEROUS this could be,” she wrote, sharing her surprise and shock.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings regarding the use of copper containers with acidic liquids. Acidic drinks can cause copper to leach into the beverage, potentially leading to health risks. The FDA advises against using copper with substances that have a pH below 6. Dusenberry, having unknowingly consumed the mixture, feared she may have poisoned herself.

After feeling discomfort in her stomach, she contacted her family and boyfriend for support. “The longer it went on, the more scared I got,” Dusenberry recalled. Following the advice of medical professionals, she made her way to the campus health centre, where she was recommended to visit an emergency room for further evaluation. Fortunately, she did not experience severe symptoms, and her stomach pain subsided a few hours later.

The next day brought further surprises when she emptied her copper bottle, only to find the remnants of her drink had transformed into a neon yellow liquid. “It honestly scared me all over again,” she remarked, emphasising the need to consider the safety of everyday products.

Dusenberry made a swift decision to replace her copper bottle with a different container from Target. Since the switch, she has reported feeling well and has taken the experience as a lesson in product safety. Her TikTok video has garnered significant attention, with over 2 million views, ensuring her message reaches a wider audience.

Many viewers expressed their own experiences with similar products, with some unaware of the possible risks associated with using copper for acidic drinks. Dusenberry has taken to heart suggestions from commenters to get her copper levels tested, showing her commitment to understanding the potential consequences of her situation better.

Reflecting on her experience, Dusenberry hopes to educate others about the possible hazards of certain containers. “Be very careful with anything made of copper,” she urged. “I had no clue and it could have been so much worse.” Her story serves as a cautionary tale for students and consumers alike to be vigilant when selecting products for everyday use.