How long can tea be unrefrigerated?

Answer by  rbiales (3441)

Theoretically forever if it is not contaminated with any living matter. It's the creatures that live in the tea that can be a problem. Since it's difficult to keep tea sterile unrefrigerated chilling it is safer.

Answer by  patti (29325)

It depends on the temperature of the environment where it's been sitting out. Depending on the conditions, the tea may begin to ferment, which will cause it to taste as though it is carbonated. Mold can also form if the temperature is right. If you have any doubts, toss it.

Answer by  geethapriya (239)

Tea may be unrefrigerated for two to three hour from preparation. Otherwise after two hour there may be microbiol reaction occurring.

Answer by  asanson (253)

Tea should not be unrefrigerated for more than eight or nine hours. If left unattended for eight or nine hours, the fact that it's not pasteurize can make bacteria grow in the container. This would be unsafe to drink and is not extremely risky, but sometimes it's better to be safe than sorry.

Answer by  Anonymous

once i left tea out for three days that had been boiled and then left to cool on its own. it was still good unrefrigerated