How Long Does Brewed Mushroom Tea Last? Proper Storage Tips

The Shelf Life and Storage of Mushroom Tea

Mushroom tea, made by steeping dried or powdered mushrooms in hot water, has become a popular health drink due to supposed benefits like reducing inflammation and increasing energy. But like any perishable food or beverage, proper storage is important to preserve freshness and potency. So how long does mushroom tea last? What is the shelf life of premade mushroom tea, and what is the best way to store it?

An Overview of Mushroom Tea

Mushroom tea is made by steeping therapeutic, edible mushrooms like:

• Chaga
• Cordyceps
• Lion's mane
• Reishi
• Turkey tail
• Maitake
• Shiitake

Dried mushrooms are typically used, but some companies produce powdered mushroom extract tea bags. The mushrooms infuse the hot water with their nutrients, compounds, and active ingredients.

Proposed benefits of different mushroom teas include:

• Boosting immunity
• Increasing energy and stamina
• Reducing inflammation
• Supporting cognition and focus
• Promoting heart health
• Regulating blood sugar
• Improving digestion

However, more research is still needed on specific health claims.

Shelf Life of Dry Mushroom Tea Mix

When stored properly in an airtight container away from heat, light, and moisture, dried mushrooms or mushroom tea blends can last for 1 to 2 years before losing potency. Optimal storage conditions help prevent moisture absorption and degradation over time.

Signs that dried mushrooms have gone bad include:

• Change in texture - Becomes mushy or crumbly
• Change in smell - Moldy or musty odor
• Change in appearance - Dull color, white spots of mold

Discard any mushrooms or mushroom tea mix that shows signs of spoilage. For best flavor and health benefits, use within 1 year.

Shelf Life of Brewed Mushroom Tea

Prepared mushroom tea only lasts 1-3 days when properly stored. The perishable nature is due to:

• Water content allows microbial growth
• Loss of heat-sensitive nutrients
• Chemical changes from oxidation

Drink freshly brewed mushroom tea immediately for maximum effects. Leftover tea should be refrigerated and consumed within 24-72 hours. Look for changes in appearance, aroma, or taste before drinking.

Does Adding Citrus Juice Help?

Some sources claim adding a bit of lemon, lime, or citric acid to mushroom tea after brewing can help preserve potency an extra day or two by preventing oxidation. However, there is limited research on how much it impacts shelf life compared to refrigeration alone.

While a squeeze of citrus can impart flavor, it's still best practice to drink batches of mushroom tea shortly after preparation for ideal nutritional quality and medicinal effects.

Storing Brewed Mushroom Tea Properly

To maximize the shelf life of prepared mushroom tea:

• Let tea cool completely before storage
• Refrigerate in a sealed container immediately after brewing
• Avoid leaving tea at room temperature more than 2 hours
• Store tea towards the back of the refrigerator where colder
• Never freeze or microwave leftover tea
• Consume within 24-72 hours for best quality

Also, pay attention to manufacturing or best by dates on commercial mushroom tea products and store unopened packages according to package directions.

Signs Mushroom Tea Has Spoiled

Prepared mushroom tea can spoil due to bacteria, yeast, mold, and chemical changes over time. Look for:

• Cloudy appearance or changes in color
• Off odors
• Visible mold
• Slimy or slippery texture
• Sour or acidic taste

Err on the side of caution and discard mushroom tea if any changes seem suspicious. Never drink it if something seems off. Rebrew a fresh batch for consumption.

Other Safety Tips

Besides proper storage, taking additional care when preparing and consuming mushroom tea is advised:

• Wash hands and utensils thoroughly first
• Use water just below boiling temperature
• Allow tea to cool slightly before drinking
• Start with small servings to assess tolerance
• Rinse mushrooms before steeping to remove debris
• Purchase only reputable, high-quality source mushrooms

Pregnant women, children, those on medication or with health conditions should also consult their doctor before drinking mushroom tea.

Mushroom Tea Storage Tips

When stored optimally, dried mushrooms and mushroom tea mixes can retain potency for up to 2 years, but shelf life decreases quickly after brewing. Prepared mushroom tea is highly perishable and only lasts 24-72 hours refrigerated. Keep unused mushroom tea refrigerated and drink leftovers within a few days for the best flavor, aroma, appearance, and nutritional benefits.

While proper, careful storage can help maximize shelf life, mushroom tea is best enjoyed freshly brewed whenever possible. But understanding appropriate storage and signs of spoilage allows you to retain as much of the desired sensory experience and health benefits as possible.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.