How Long is Sweet Tea Good For?
Sweet tea is a beloved, traditional beverage that is a staple of many southern households. The question of how long it remains good after preparation is an important one to answer so that you can fully enjoy its refreshing flavor without worry.
Refrigeration
If you keep your sweet tea in the fridge, it can stay fresh and retain its flavor for up to one week. To make sure it lasts, store the tea in an airtight container – a glass or plastic pitcher with a tightly fitting lid works best. This will prevent bacteria and other unwanted contaminants from coming in contact with your tea.
Out of the Refrigerator
If you leave your sweet tea at room temperature, it will remain good for up to three days. Keeping it in a cool, dark spot is the best way to maximize its shelf life. Be sure to pay attention to any changes in taste or smell, as these can indicate that the tea has gone bad and should be thrown out.
Tips for Best Quality
To ensure your sweet tea stays good for as long as possible, consider the following tips:
- Only use clean, filtered water when making your tea. This will help reduce the risk of tea-borne illnesses such as E. coli.
- Add citrus slices to the tea to extend its freshness. Citrus fruits are known to have natural preservative properties, which can help keep your tea looking and tasting great.
- Store it in glass or plastic containers. Plastic is only an option if you can find a container that is BPA-free. Glass is the best choice for storing sweet tea, as it is free of toxic particles and will not affect the flavor of the tea.
Taking the proper steps to store your sweet tea will ensure that you can enjoy it for as long as possible. As with any food product, keeping your tea in the fridge and paying attention to taste and smell are key. With some care and attention, sweet tea can last up to one week and remain delicious.
