Does tea expire once its been brewed?

Yes, brewed tea does expire, though not in the same way as unopened tea leaves.

Here's why:

* Flavor and aroma: The delicate compounds that give tea its flavor and aroma start to degrade quickly once brewed. This happens due to oxidation and the loss of volatile compounds.

* Bacteria: While hot water initially kills bacteria, leaving brewed tea out for extended periods can allow bacteria to grow. This is especially true if the tea is not kept hot or refrigerated.

* Taste: The taste of brewed tea becomes less enjoyable over time, becoming duller and less flavorful.

How long does brewed tea last?

* Hot: Hot brewed tea is best consumed within 1 hour for optimal flavor and freshness.

* Cold: Cold brewed tea can last up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

* Refrigerated: Brewed tea can be refrigerated for up to 3 days for best results.

Signs that brewed tea has expired:

* Sour or off smell: A sour or off-putting smell indicates bacterial growth.

* Dull taste: The flavor becomes less vibrant and more bitter.

* Appearance changes: The tea may become cloudy or develop a film on the surface.

Tips to enjoy brewed tea longer:

* Brew fresh: Brew your tea just before drinking for the best flavor.

* Store properly: Refrigerate any leftover brewed tea.

* Reheat carefully: Reheating tea can further degrade the flavor.

Enjoy your tea! 😊