Generally, it's not recommended to drink tea that's been sitting out overnight or for a whole day. While it might not necessarily make you sick, the quality and taste will likely be significantly diminished.
Here's a breakdown of why:
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Flavor Degradation: Tea's delicate flavors degrade over time, especially when exposed to air and light. Yesterday's tea will likely taste stale, bitter, or flat compared to freshly brewed tea.
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Tannin Release: The longer tea steeps (or sits), the more tannins are released. This contributes to a more bitter and astringent flavor.
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Potential for Bacterial Growth: While tea possesses some antimicrobial properties, bacteria can still grow in brewed tea over time, especially if left at room temperature. Refrigeration can slow down this process, but it doesn't eliminate the risk entirely.
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Loss of Beneficial Compounds: Some of the beneficial antioxidants and other compounds in tea can degrade over time.
What if the tea was refrigerated?
Refrigerating yesterday's tea can help preserve it somewhat. However, the flavor will still likely be compromised. Consider using refrigerated leftover tea for:
- Iced tea: Add fresh lemon, sweeteners, or other flavorings to mask any staleness.
- Cooking: Use it as a flavorful liquid in sauces, marinades, or even baking.
- Watering plants: Diluted, unsweetened tea can be a gentle fertilizer for some plants.
In summary:
While drinking yesterday's tea may not be dangerous, the significant decline in flavor and potential for bacterial growth makes it less than ideal. It's generally best to brew a fresh cup. If you do choose to consume leftover tea, refrigerate it promptly and use it within 24 hours, ideally for something other than drinking straight.
