What Happens If You Drink Expired Tea?
Tea is enjoyed by millions of people around the world as a way to enjoy a hot cup of flavor and relaxation. Unfortunately, its refreshing effects do not last forever. Here’s a closer look at what happens if you accidentally drink expired tea.
Sensory Changes
The first thing that is likely to happen when you drink expired tea is a sudden shift in taste and color. Tea that has gone bad can have a musty, unpleasant flavor and may appear to be a muddy brown in color.
Bacterial Contamination
When tea becomes expired, bacteria will begin to accumulate on its surface. This includes both kinds of bacteria that can cause food-borne illnesses, such as botulism, as well as harmless kinds of bacteria. While it may not make you sick, it can have an unpleasant taste.
Nutritional Changes
Old tea will also stop providing the benefits associated with the drink. This includes anti-oxidants, vitamins, and minerals that may have been present in the tea when it was fresh.
Safety Considerations
If you have accidentally consumed expired tea, there is unlikely to be any lasting harm. However, it is best to avoid drinking tea that is past its expiry date in order to prevent any possibility of food-borne illnesses.
To Sum Up:
Drinking expired tea can lead to sensory changes, bacterial contamination, and nutritional changes. While there is no need to be overly worried, it’s best to avoid it in order to be safe.
