Does Mamaki tea need to be refrigerated for optimal storage?

January 10, 2026 •

4 min read

Brewed tea, particularly herbal infusions like Mamaki, can last up to 48 hours when refrigerated, a significant extension from the few hours it remains fresh at room temperature. This fact is central to answering the common question: does Mamaki tea need to be refrigerated?

Quick Summary

Brewed Mamaki tea requires refrigeration to prevent spoilage and maintain flavor, lasting for days to weeks depending on preparation. Dried Mamaki leaves should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place in an airtight container.

Key Points

Refrigerate Brewed Mamaki: After brewing, store Mamaki tea in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth and maintain freshness for up to several weeks.
Do Not Refrigerate Dried Leaves: Keep dried Mamaki leaves in a cool, dark, and dry pantry, as refrigeration can introduce moisture and cause mold.
Use Airtight Containers: Whether brewed or dried, always use an airtight container to prevent the absorption of odors and to protect against oxidation.
Shelf Life Differs Greatly: Brewed tea lasts days to weeks in the fridge, while dried leaves can last up to 2 years in a proper pantry.
Watch for Spoilage: Discard brewed tea if it develops a sour smell, becomes cloudy, or shows any signs of mold.
Flavor Additions Shorten Shelf Life: Brewed tea with added sweeteners or fruit should be consumed much sooner, ideally within 1-2 days, even when refrigerated.

The Short Answer for Brewed Mamaki Tea

Yes, brewed Mamaki tea needs to be refrigerated if you do not plan to drink it within a few hours. Similar to other herbal infusions, once brewed, Mamaki tea is a perishable liquid. To maximize its freshness, flavor, and prevent bacterial growth, refrigeration is the most effective and recommended storage method. Brewed and refrigerated Mamaki can last for days, and even weeks if made into a concentrate, providing a convenient and ready-to-drink beverage. For batches containing added sweeteners or fruits, immediate refrigeration is crucial to prevent faster spoilage.

Storing Dried Mamaki Leaves

Before brewing, dried Mamaki leaves must be stored properly to preserve their delicate flavor and potency. The goal is to protect them from the four main enemies of tea: air, moisture, heat, and light. Improper storage can lead to a dull, stale brew long before the leaves are unsafe to consume. For best results, use an opaque, airtight container, such as a tea tin or a ceramic jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store this container in a cool, dark, and dry location, like a pantry or cabinet away from the stove or windows. A long-term shelf life of 1.5 to 2 years is possible for properly stored leaves.

Here are some best practices for storing dried Mamaki leaves:

Use airtight containers: To prevent oxidation and absorption of other odors, use containers with a tight seal.
Avoid light: Keep leaves in opaque containers and away from direct sunlight, which degrades the plant material.
Control temperature: A cool, consistent temperature is ideal. Avoid storing tea in areas that experience frequent temperature fluctuations, such as above an oven.
Keep it dry: Moisture is the enemy, as it can cause mold. Never store leaves near a steam source or in an unsealed container.
No strong smells: Tea leaves can absorb nearby smells, so store them away from spices, coffee, and other pungent items.

Storing Brewed Mamaki Tea

For convenience, many people brew large batches of Mamaki tea to enjoy over several days. Correct storage is key to ensuring it remains safe and flavorful.

Steps for Refrigerating Brewed Mamaki:

Cool it down: Allow the hot tea to cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator. Transferring hot tea directly to the fridge can cause condensation and affect the temperature of other foods.
Use a clean, airtight vessel: Choose a clean pitcher or jar with a tight-fitting lid. This prevents contaminants from entering and keeps the tea from absorbing other fridge odors. Glass containers are excellent for this purpose.
Consume within the recommended timeframe: For plain Mamaki tea, aim to drink it within 3-5 days for the best flavor. As a general rule, fresh, unadulterated tea can last up to two or three weeks when refrigerated, especially if it was steeped overnight for maximum extraction. For tea with added sweeteners or juices, consume it within 1-2 days.

Refrigeration vs. Pantry Storage: A Comparison


Feature	Brewed Mamaki Tea (Refrigerated)	Dried Mamaki Leaves (Pantry)
Shelf Life	3-5 days (plain), up to 3 weeks (concentrate)	1.5-2 years, if stored correctly
Storage Method	Airtight glass jar or pitcher	Airtight, opaque tin or jar
Temperature	35-40°F (in the refrigerator)	Cool, consistent room temperature
Light Exposure	Stored in the dark of the fridge	Stored in a dark cabinet or pantry
Moisture Risk	High if container is not sealed well	High if not protected from humidity
Primary Goal	Preserve freshness, prevent bacterial growth	Maintain flavor and potency long-term

The Final Verdict on Refrigerating Mamaki Tea

The need for refrigeration for Mamaki tea depends entirely on its state. Dried Mamaki leaves should never be refrigerated, as the moisture and condensation could lead to mold growth and a rapid loss of flavor. They require a cool, dark, dry, and airtight environment. However, once brewed, Mamaki tea is a liquid infusion that becomes susceptible to bacterial growth and spoilage, especially if left at room temperature for more than a few hours. Therefore, for preserving the tea's taste, health benefits, and safety for days or weeks, refrigeration is not just recommended, but necessary. This simple practice ensures you can enjoy a refreshing and healthful cup of Hawaiian tea long after its initial preparation. For more information on Mamaki's properties and preparation, consider visiting the National Tropical Botanical Garden's site on Mamaki storage best practices.

How to Tell if Mamaki Tea Has Gone Bad

Like any food product, your brewed Mamaki tea will show signs of spoilage. While older dried leaves will just produce a bland cup, spoiled brewed tea can be a health risk. Look for these indicators:

Off-smell: The subtle, earthy aroma will be replaced by a sour or unpleasant odor.
Cloudiness or visible mold: Any cloudiness, sediment that wasn't there before, or a visible fuzzy layer on the surface are clear signs of spoilage.
Sour taste: A noticeably sour or bitter taste indicates the tea is past its prime and should be discarded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brewed Mamaki tea can typically be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. If prepared as a concentrated brew, it can last for up to 2-3 weeks.

Dried Mamaki leaves should be stored in an airtight, opaque container in a cool, dark, and dry location, like a pantry or cabinet.

For optimal flavor and to avoid spoilage, it is not recommended to leave brewed tea out for more than a few hours. Brewed tea can develop bacteria, especially with added ingredients.

Signs of spoilage include a sour or unpleasant odor, cloudiness in the liquid, and visible mold growth on the surface. If you notice any of these, discard the tea.

No, refrigerating dried leaves is not recommended. The moisture and potential for condensation in a refrigerator can lead to mold and negatively impact the flavor and quality of the leaves.

Yes, tea with added sweeteners or fruit must be refrigerated immediately and consumed within 1-2 days, as these ingredients accelerate bacterial growth and spoilage.

If the tea was properly stored, dried Mamaki leaves past their 'best by' date are generally safe to consume but may have a less potent flavor and aroma. Brewed tea should be discarded if it shows any signs of spoilage.