China has six main types of Tea, and each type has different properties, aromas, and flavors. Some teas are suitable for long-term storage, as their natural fermentation process enhances their aroma and flavor, making them more appealing to tea enthusiasts. Additionally, the properties of these teas become more easily accepted by the body over time. However, some teas lose their aroma and flavor over time, diminishing their value for consumption.

How Long is the Shelf Life of Tea? Do You Know the Shelf Life of the Six Types of Tea?

Green Tea: At room temperature, it is generally around 1 year. Green tea is prized for its freshness, so its shelf life is relatively shorter than other teas.

Yellow Tea: At room temperature, it is generally around 1 year. The production of yellow tea is similar to green tea, with an additional step of piling, so like green tea, the storage period is about 1 year.

Oolong Tea: Oolong tea can be stored refrigerated for up to 18 months. For baked oolong, add 6 months to the shelf life, making it 24 months without needing refrigeration; a cool, ventilated area is sufficient.

Black Tea: The shelf life of black tea is generally 1-3 years. The shelf life of black tea can vary depending on packaging: loose Leaf black tea lasts about 1 year, packaged black tea lasts about 2 years, and canned black tea lasts about 3 years.

White Tea: White tea has the saying, “one-year tea, three-year medicine, seven-year treasure, ten-year elixir.” Thus, white tea improves with age. The older the white tea, the richer and more fragrant its flavor becomes.

Dark Tea: Brick dark tea can be stored for 10-15 years, while loose dark tea is suitable for 5-10 years. White tea and dark tea are teas that can be stored long-term.

Even after the expiration date, tea may not necessarily have gone bad, but for optimal taste, it's best to consume it within the expiration period.

The Five Taboos of Storing Tea

1. Avoid Moisture

When storing tea, ensure it remains dry to prevent dampness. Damp tea can significantly reduce its flavor and freshness. Excessive moisture can accelerate the mold growth in tea.

2. Avoid Contact with Odd Odors

Avoid contact with odd odors, as this can affect the taste of the tea. When you take a sip, you might taste the absorbed odd odors.

3. Avoid High Temperature Storage

Maintain an appropriate temperature to preserve the aroma of the tea. High temperatures can speed up the internal changes in tea, affecting its taste.

4. Avoid Sunlight Exposure

Store the tea away from sunlight! Sunlight can cause oxidation of chlorophyll and aromatic compounds in tea, impacting its aroma.

5. Avoid Long-Term Exposure

Leaving tea exposed for extended periods allows oxygen in the air to promote the oxidation of internal components in the tea, accelerating spoilage. Moisture in the air can also be absorbed by the tea, reducing its original quality.