Can I Drink Expired Tea?
When your tea expires, you may be wondering whether you can drink it or if it might make you sick. The good news is there is rarely a health risk in drinking expired tea. So while it may not taste its best, it is generally safe to drink, provided it has been stored properly.
Expired Tea Taste
It’s unlikely your expired tea will have spoiled in the true sense of the word. If it is still sealed and stored away from heat, light and moisture, there is a good chance that it will still be safe to drink. However, the quality of the tea may still suffer.
In most cases, expired tea will have lost much of its flavor and health benefits as the beneficial compounds in tea break down over time, especially when not stored properly. You may still be able to enjoy it if you don’t mind the taste or if you add some honey or lemon to it. Alternatively, you can use the tea for other uses, such as for ice cubes or for tea-scented potpourri.
Storage Tips
To keep your tea from going bad, it is important to store it properly. Here are some tips:
- Keep it cool. Try to store it in a cool, dark area away from sunlight and heat.
- Opt for an airtight container. That will keep it fresher longer and ensure it doesn’t take on the flavors of other items in your pantry.
- Check the expiration date. Choose tea with a faraway expiration date, and once you open the package, use it within the time indicated by the manufacturer.
- Store away from moisture. Keep your tea away from areas of high humidity to prevent it from becoming stale.
Bottom Line
While expired tea may not taste its best, it is generally safe to drink. In most cases, it will have lost its flavor and many of its health benefits, so you should take extra care to store your tea in a cool, dry place with an airtight container if you want it to stay fresh for a longer period of time.
