Can You Use Tea Bags After They Expire?

If you store your tea bags properly, they can stay fresh for up to a year. While tea bags expire, it doesn't necessarily mean the brew isn't safe to drink.

Tea bags lose flavor and nutritional qualities over time, mostly due to oxidation and moisture. However, the tea is still safe to brew and drink if there's no mold.

Keep your tea good by storing it in dry locations out of direct sunlight. Also, keep in mind which type of tea you have — green tea, for instance, loses its flavor much faster.

To check if your tea is beyond its prime, look for a crumbly, overly dry texture and a strong, funky, mildew-like odor. The latter is a strong indicator of mold.