Bubble tea is best consumed immediately, but it generally stays good in the refrigerator for about 24 hours.
While bubble tea can potentially be consumed after 24 hours in the fridge, its flavor and texture will likely degrade significantly. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Refrigerated: Bubble tea is generally safe to drink if refrigerated and consumed within 24 hours. After this time, the tea's flavor starts to fade, and the boba pearls can become hard and lose their chewy texture.
- Room Temperature: Bubble tea should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours, as this encourages bacterial growth.
- Factors Affecting Shelf Life: The type of ingredients used (fresh milk vs. powdered creamer, type of tea) and the cleanliness of the preparation environment can affect how long bubble tea stays good.
Why Refrigeration Matters:
Refrigeration slows down the growth of bacteria and helps to preserve the quality of the ingredients. The longer bubble tea sits out or is stored improperly, the greater the risk of spoilage.
Signs of Spoilage:
- Sour smell
- Separation of ingredients
- Unusual taste
If you observe any of these signs, discard the bubble tea immediately.
