Do you often drink tea? You've probably wondered whether green tea expires; it's been widely discussed. So, we decided to explore this question, so today's article will address it.

The benefits of green tea are many, but we must always understand whether it has an expiration date or not. It's important to know a little about it, because the answer lies precisely in its composition. Tea is made from a plant called Camellia sinensis, which undergoes a process of oxidation and drying to obtain it.

Depending on the tea variety, the oxidation process it undergoes will depend. For example, white tea barely undergoes any oxidation, but black tea undergoes a very extensive one. Other types of tea are obtained through moderate oxidation, such as green tea, oolong tea, yellow tea, and red tea. With all this in mind, we can consider the shelf life of green tea.

So… does tea expire?

The answer is yes and no. Being a natural product, it does expire, but an exception must be made: those that expire are perishable products or those that pose a risk of bacteria. However, this is not the case with tea, as it lasts over time.

The expiration date doesn't apply to tea; rather, the use-by date applies. This means that after this date, the tea loses its properties, but there's no health risk if used. However, keep in mind that the shelf life of green tea is not the same as that of other teas; this depends on the presentation and variety. It also depends on how it's stored and whether it's in a tea bag or loose .

How long is the shelf life of green tea?

We already know that tea doesn't expire; rather, it loses its properties after a certain date. In this sense, it's said that tea lasts for two years, but this depends on several factors, which we've already mentioned and will detail later.

In a bag or in bulk?

If we want to know the expiration date on green tea bags, all we have to do is read the packaging. But what about loose tea? Believe it or not, loose tea lasts longer than tea bags. The explanation is that the loose leaves undergo a special rolling process to better preserve their aroma, flavor, and color.

At Tétique, we offer the highest quality loose green tea . It's perfect for catering businesses, cafes, and restaurants.

Where it is stored

For the full shelf life of green tea, store it in a cool, dry place where it's not exposed to moisture or sunlight. Of course, airtight packaging will enhance its preservation.

The type of tea

As we mentioned, the type of tea also depends on its expiration date and the oxidation process. Let's see what varieties there are:

• White tea . It is recommended to consume it within the first 6 months of purchase.
• Green tea. Since its oxidation process is also slow, it's recommended to consume it within 6 months. However, heat-processed teas typically last up to two years.
• Red tea . This variety of tea lasts a long time thanks to its fermentation process. Plus, if stored properly, it can last longer.
• Blue tea or oolong. Its properties last up to a year and a half.
• Black tea . If stored properly, it can last up to a year.

And if I drink it after the shelf life of green tea

As we've already told you, green tea poses no microbiological or bacterial risk, which means that if it's expired, it shouldn't cause any harm to you, unless it's full of mold.

So, after its expiration date, you'll most likely taste a tea with less body and few properties. Its flavor and aroma won't be what you expected. You already know that green tea has an expiration date, but unlike perishable products, it has to do with the loss of its properties and changes in flavor and aroma.

How to preserve green tea?

Green tea can be purchased anywhere in the world, but many people are unfamiliar with it and drink it simply as a fad. Added to this is the fact that they haven't learned how long it lasts or how to store it. This is important because it helps green tea last longer.

Humidity, heat, sunlight, and oxygen are all elements that can damage green tea if exposed to them. You should also store it in a location where it won't absorb odors from external agents that can alter its flavor and aroma.

Tea experts say that green tea, if kept in good condition, can last up to a year. After this time, its properties and flavor will change, so if you consume it before this year, all the better.

For best preservation of green tea, it's recommended to store it in tightly sealed glass jars or tins. It's best to store it in a dark place at a moderate, but not hot, temperature. In fact, it's even recommended to store it in the refrigerator, as cold temperatures are preferable.

Now, if you want to consume it, you'll need to take it out of the refrigerator and wait for it to reach room temperature. If you decide to prepare it with the leaves still cold, the water will condense and damage the leaves. It's also important to consider that since it has a mild flavor, other ingredients can make delicious green tea.

At Tétique, we are proud to offer a wide variety of organic teas and infusions to suit everyone's needs and tastes. All of our products are carefully selected and sustainably produced, so you can enjoy healthy and delicious beverages while protecting the planet. Feel free to visit our online store and discover all of our high-quality teas and infusions. You'll be amazed by their flavors and health benefits!