Is it Safe to Drink Expired Tea?
It’s not uncommon for tea lovers to be concerned about whether or not it’s safe to drink expired tea. After all, tea does expire eventually, and drinking something that has gone off can cause food poisoning and other illnesses.
What Does Expire Mean for Tea?
When it comes to tea, ‘expired’ means that its flavor and nutritional value have diminished over time. This usually happens within 12–18 months of purchase. So if a packet of tea has been sitting in your cupboard for longer than this time, it might not taste as good as when it was freshly opened.
Is Expired Tea Safe to Drink?
Fortunately, expired tea is not generally considered to be dangerous to drink. While the flavor and nutritional value of the tea may have diminished, bacteria that could cause food poisoning should not be present if the tea has been stored correctly. So if the tea looks and smells okay, it should be safe to drink.
How Long Does Tea Stay Fresh?
Tea stays fresh for around twelve to eighteen months from when it is purchased. After this time, the tea’s flavor and nutritional value will diminish.
It is important to keep tea stored away from heat, light and air. Tea should be stored in an airtight container, away from strong smelling foods.
Conclusion
Expired tea is generally considered safe to drink, although the flavor and nutritional value have probably lessened over time. It’s important to make sure tea is stored away from heat, light, and air, and to consume it within twelve to eighteen months after purchase.
If you’re in any doubt, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid drinking expired tea.
