Does sun tea pose risks? Learn from food safety experts and heed vital safety guidelines.
Sun tea is made by brewing tea in a clear container set in the sun for several hours.
In this article, we will explore Sun tea dangers.
Is Sun Tea Safe
Sun tea rests outside your door for hours, exposed to 40°F to 140°F temperatures, risking bacterial growth.
Donald Schaffner, Ph.D., a Rutgers University food microbiology professor, notes teas may harbor microorganisms.
In 1996 the CDC released a memo highlighting tea leaf contamination with coliform bacteria.
While scientific research on sun tea is limited, a 1996 patent delves into microorganism growth at different temperatures.
The researchers studied temperatures, beginning at 100°F, probably warmer than your outdoor conditions.
When they intentionally introduced Klebsiella pneumonia bacteria to the tea, the bacteria rapidly multiplied within 24 hours.
This should prompt a reevaluation of your sun tea brewing process.
Here’s the Sun Tea Verdict
Schaffner recommends steeping sun tea for no more than four hours if you plan to consume it immediately.
He advises a three-hour steep followed by refrigeration if you intend to save it.
Due to low heat and prolonged exposure, Schaffner highlights time, temperature, and sun tea risks.
However, it is safe to consider a steeping time of four hours or less.
Aim to consume leftovers, including refrigerated sun tea, for optimal safety within three days.
To maximize safety, Schaffner suggests using boiling water when making tea and opting for cold brew, regular iced, or hot tea.
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