In most cases, consuming expired or aged tea does not pose any significant health risks. The primary change you’ll notice over time is a decline in flavor intensity, resulting in a duller, less vibrant taste. Although the tea’s aroma and taste may diminish, the beverage remains safe to drink as long as it shows no signs of mold or spoilage. Before brewing, it’s wise to inspect your tea for any visible mold or unusual odors. If the tea appears clean and smells normal, it’s generally safe to enjoy, even beyond its expiration date.
However, if you discover mold growth on your tea leaves or within the packaging, it’s best to discard those bags immediately. Mold can produce mycotoxins, which, although often harmless in small amounts, can sometimes lead to health issues such as nausea, vomiting, or respiratory problems if ingested in larger quantities. While mold on tea doesn’t always cause illness, it’s better to err on the side of caution to avoid any potential health hazards.
When checking the quality of your stored tea, consider the expiration or best-by date. Tea that is a few weeks or even a couple of months past this date usually retains good flavor. But if your tea has been sitting for several years, it’s likely to have lost much of its original aroma and taste. Changes in color—such as darkening or dullness—are common and not necessarily indicators of spoilage, so give it a quick taste test before deciding to toss it out.
Leave a Reply