Yes, you can drink 50 year old tea, and according to the provided reference, it's completely safe.
Even though it might not be the most appealing thought to consume something that's been sitting around for half a century, the primary concern is usually the quality and flavor, not safety.
Safety Considerations of Aged Tea
- It's generally safe: The reference confirms that drinking old tea will not harm you.
- Potential Issues: While safe, very old tea may have absorbed odors from its surroundings or lost much of its original flavor.
Factors Affecting Tea Quality Over Time
The quality of 50-year-old tea depends on several factors:
- Storage Conditions: Was the tea stored in an airtight container, away from light, moisture, and strong odors? Proper storage significantly impacts the quality.
- Type of Tea: Some teas, like pu-erh, are actually aged intentionally, which can enhance their flavor. Others might degrade over time.
- Initial Quality: High-quality tea will generally age better than lower-quality tea.
What to Expect from 50-Year-Old Tea
Here are some things you might experience if you decide to brew a cup of very old tea:
- Flavor Changes: Expect a significant difference in flavor compared to fresh tea. The original taste may have mellowed, disappeared, or been replaced by other flavors it absorbed during storage.
- Aroma Changes: The aroma might be faint or altered.
- Appearance: The tea leaves' color may have faded.
In conclusion, while drinking 50-year-old tea is considered safe, manage your expectations regarding flavor and aroma. The storage conditions and the type of tea play a significant role in its overall quality.
