Tea is a drink that is enjoyed by many people all over the world. It is made from Camellia sinensis leaves and can be enjoyed hot or cold. There are different types of tea, such as black, green, and white tea, as well as herbal teas. Tea is a healthy drink and has many benefits -- but does tea go bad, though?
Our tea blog has the answers you are looking for, so read on if you want to find out more.
How Is Tea Made?
Tea is made from Camellia sinensis leaves which are dried up according to specific procedures (which results in green tea, black tea, or white tea). Herbal tea is made in a similar way, through the drying process of different plants (such as peppermint or chamomile, for example).
Once dried, tea is either sold loose (by weight) or in tea bags (or, more recently, tea pyramids). Just as a fun fact, the first time tea bags were invented, people didn't know how to use them and thought tea was dripping out of them (because they didn't know they should leave the tea bags in the cup and brew their drink this way).
Does Tea Go Bad?
The short answer is no, tea doesn't go bad. It may lose its flavor over time or become stale, but it doesn't actually spoil. The tea leaves are dried and will stay this way for a very long time.
If you want to enjoy your favorite tea for longer, though, you should definitely make sure you learn how to store it correctly. Some of the most important things to know about storing tea include:
- Keep tea away from moisture and heat
- Make sure the tea is in an airtight container
- Store different types of tea separately
- Label your tea so you know what's inside
What Happens If You Have Bad Tea?
If you end up with bad tea, it might not taste very good anymore. The leaves may also have a different color than they usually do. If the tea has been exposed to moisture for too long, it might even start growing mold. So if you ever notice any of these things happening, it's best to throw the tea away and get a new box.
As a general rule, tea doesn't go bad, so it won't actually harm you. If, however, it develops mold, that might definitely harm you. So if you see any signs of spoilage, it's best to get rid of the tea for your safety. Better safe, than sorry, right?
Tea Expiration: FAQs
Does iced tea go bad?
Iced tea will go bad if it is not stored in a fridge. The ice will dilute the flavor and make the drink less enjoyable. Plus, if you've added sugar or honey to it, there is a chance that the drink might spoil.
Does loose leaf tea go bad?
Loose leaf tea doesn't go bad and can be stored at room temperature. However, it will lose its flavor over time, so it's best to drink it as soon as possible.
