You can generally drink tea that's been stored properly for 6 months to a year. However, some specialty teas, such as pu-erh and aged white teas, can be enjoyed for much longer, even improving with age.
Factors Affecting Tea's Drinkability
The length of time tea remains palatable depends on several factors:
- Type of Tea: Different teas have different shelf lives. Black teas generally have shorter shelf lives than green teas. As mentioned previously, pu-erh and aged white teas are exceptions.
- Storage: Proper storage is crucial. Airtight containers in a cool, dark, and dry place are ideal to prevent oxidation and preserve flavor. Exposure to light, air, and moisture will significantly reduce the tea's quality and shelf life.
Beyond the Shelf Life: Taste and Safety
While tea might be safe to consume beyond the recommended timeframe (6 months to a year), its flavor and aroma will degrade over time. You might notice:
- Faded Flavor: The distinctive taste notes will become muted or disappear entirely.
- Loss of Aroma: The pleasant fragrance will diminish.
- Off-Flavors: A stale or musty taste might develop.
It's important to remember that taste is subjective. While some might still enjoy older tea, others may find it unappealing. There's no inherent danger in drinking slightly older tea (stored properly) unless it shows signs of mold or spoilage.
