What is the shelf life of loose leaf tea?

Answer 1

It varies on what tea leaf it is and how air tight the packaging is but many sources agree that loose leaf tea might be good for up to 2 years. Although only avid tea drinkers buy loose leaf (which is substantially more expensive than tea bags) and rarely keep their teas around long enough to find out.

Answer 2

Most teas are best stored in an airtight container that does not let light through, such as a metal tin. Glass containers can be used, but if they are used, the glass jars are best stored in a closed cupboard away from light.

If you re-use a container, let it air it out for some time before putting the new tea in; tea leaves can easily absorb the scent from whatever was in the container before.

Do not freeze tea.

Aged teas such as Pu-erh are different--they contain active bacterial and mold cultures, much like yogurt or cheese, and need to be exposed to air. These teas are best stored in a slightly porous container, such as an unglazed ceramic jar, or a glass or glazed ceramic container with a cloth placed over the top. Store in an area place with constant temperature and humidity, and away from other aromas. If stored properly, such teas often improve in quality over time, like a fine wine.