USDA FoodKeeper record
Do Tea Bags Expire?
USDA FoodKeeper lists tea bags at 6 to 12 months for “Pantry — after opening.”
The exact source row is Tea — bags in the USDA FSIS FoodKeeper distribution. This page preserves each available condition rather than turning the product into one generic expiration date.
FoodKeeper storage table
| Condition | FoodKeeper period | Source note |
|---|---|---|
| Pantry — date on package | 18 to 36 months | Follow package and storage directions |
| Pantry — after opening | 6 to 12 months | Follow package and storage directions |
How to use this guidance
Storage periods depend on the exact product, package state, and condition. Use the package directions when they are more specific than the general FoodKeeper row.
- “Date on package” starts from the printed package date.
- “After opening” starts on the day the package is opened.
- Plain refrigerator, freezer, or pantry periods use the base condition in the FoodKeeper row.
Safety versus quality
FoodKeeper helps consumers maximize freshness and quality. Short refrigerator limits can also help prevent food from becoming unsafe, while freezer periods generally describe best quality because food held continuously at 0°F (-18°C) remains safe indefinitely.
Calculate the storage date
Apply this exact FoodKeeper record to the day the item was bought, opened, cooked, or thawed.
Related FoodKeeper guides
Sources
- USDA FSIS FoodKeeper Data — record 410: Tea — bags.
- FoodSafety.gov Cold Food Storage Chart — refrigerator and freezer safety context.