Can flower tea still be consumed after half a year of expiration

Flower tea that has expired for six months is usually not recommended for continued consumption. After expiration, flower tea may become damp, moldy, lose its aroma, or harbor microorganisms, posing health risks. After the expiration date of flower tea, its internal components will gradually change. The oxidation of polyphenols in tea can lead to a deterioration in flavor, loss of original aroma and taste. Due to the influence of environmental humidity, flower tea may absorb moisture, creating conditions for mold growth. Mold spots that are difficult to detect with the naked eye may produce harmful substances such as aflatoxins. The volatile components in some flower teas evaporate completely over time, greatly reducing their health benefits. If the tea soup is found to be cloudy, odorous, or floating with foreign objects during brewing, it indicates that it has clearly deteriorated. In special circumstances, flower tea that is well sealed and stored in a dry and cool environment may not undergo significant qualitative changes during the early stages of expiration. But half a year is a long time, even if the appearance is normal, the internal quality is difficult to guarantee. The plant tissues such as petals and fruits in flower tea raw materials are more prone to decay and decay than ordinary tea, and the probability of exceeding microbial standards is higher. Long term storage may also cause pesticide residues to decompose and produce unknown compounds, and high-temperature brewing cannot completely eliminate the risk.

Flower tea should be stored in a dark sealed container in a cool and dry place for daily use. Green tea flower tea is recommended to be consumed within six months, and heavy fermented tea can be extended appropriately. Expired flower tea, even if it looks normal, is not recommended to be consumed recklessly, especially for people with gastrointestinal sensitivity who may experience discomfort such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. You can choose to use expired flower tea for external purposes such as making sachets or soaking feet, which not only avoids waste but also ensures safety. Regularly check the shelf life of flower tea at home and purchase as needed to avoid hoarding in large quantities.