Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Sweetened Iced Tea expire?
Unopened, store-bought, sweetened iced tea can last well beyond its printed date, up to 3-5 months when stored properly. Once you've opened it, refrigeration is required, and it is best consumed within 7-10 days for the best quality, but can be safe for up to 2 weeks. Frozen sweetened iced tea can last up to 6 months in the freezer, but do keep in mind that this can affect the original quality and flavor of the tea. In the case of homemade sweetened iced tea, it's best enjoyed fresh but can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-5 days.
How do you tell if Sweetened Iced Tea is bad?
Telling if sweetened iced tea has gone bad can be done by using your senses. Sight: Look for any mold, changes in color, or a cloudy appearance. Smell: If the tea has a sour, unpleasant, or off smell, it's time to toss it. Taste: If it tastes sour or off, it's gone bad. Tip: It's always best to taste a small amount if you're unsure. If you have any hesitations, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Tips for storing Sweetened Iced Tea to extend shelf life
• Always store your sweetened iced tea in the refrigerator, even if it's unopened, just to be safe. Store it toward the back of your fridge where the temperature is the coldest and most consistent. This can help extend its shelf life.
• When storing homemade sweetened iced tea, always use a clean, sanitized container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent any contamination and reduce exposure to air, which can hasten spoilage.
• If you want to freeze sweetened iced tea, pour it into an ice cube tray. Once the cubes are frozen, transfer them to a sealable freezer bag. You can then just add a couple of cubes to a glass when you are ready to have some iced tea.
• Don't let sweetened iced tea sit out at room temperature for more than two hours, as bacteria can multiply rapidly.
• Lastly, even with proper storage, always use the smell and taste test before enjoying your tea.