Does tea have an expiration date?

Tea doesn't really have an "expiration date" in the traditional sense, but it does lose its flavor and aroma over time.

Here's a breakdown:

Loose leaf tea:

* Best quality: Loose leaf tea is best enjoyed within 1-2 years of being packaged.

* Still enjoyable: You can still enjoy loose leaf tea after 2 years, but the flavor and aroma may be less pronounced.

* Storage: Store loose leaf tea in airtight containers in a cool, dark, and dry place.

Tea bags:

* Best quality: Tea bags usually have a printed expiration date on the package, but it's more of a guideline for optimal flavor.

* Still drinkable: You can still drink tea bags past their printed date, but the taste may be weaker.

* Storage: Keep tea bags in a cool, dry place.

Factors affecting quality:

* Exposure to air: Oxygen can oxidize tea leaves, causing them to lose their flavor and aroma.

* Moisture: Dampness can encourage mold growth, which can make the tea unsafe to drink.

* Light: Exposure to light can degrade the tea's compounds, affecting its flavor.

* Heat: High temperatures can accelerate the degradation of tea's flavor and aroma.

Bottom line: While tea doesn't "expire" in the sense that it becomes unsafe to drink, its quality does diminish over time. For the best flavor, try to use tea within the recommended timeframe and store it properly.