Growing up in the South, making Sun Tea was more than just a method of brewing tea, it was a family tradition. I can still remember seeing a large glass jar filled with water and tea bags sitting out on the back porch, slowly steeping in the summer sun. Whether perched on a porch, placed on a garden table or lined up on a windowsill, jars of Sun Tea usually marked the beginning of summer and provided a sense of comforting nostalgia. But while the nostalgic charm of Sun Tea runs deep, many people today are asking … is it actually safe to drink?

What Is Sun Tea and How Is It Made?

Sun Tea isn’t just a Southern custom, it’s popular in various parts of the United States, especially in regions that experience hot, sunny summers. It’s typically referenced in family recipes, and passed down through generations. What makes Sun Tea so appealing is that it requires no stovetop, tea kettle or electricity — just the warmth from the sun.

Sun Tea is made by placing tea bags, most often black tea, into a large glass container filled with fresh water. The container is placed in direct sunlight for several hours, typically three to five hours, allowing the warmth of the sun to gradually infuse the water with tea flavor. Unlike traditional steeping with boiling water, this gentler method creates a smoother, milder taste. Once brewed to your preference, the tea is transferred to the refrigerator to chill and is typically served over ice. Many people like to enhance it with fresh lemon slices, fresh mint leaves or a touch of sweetener such as sugar or honey for a delicious, refreshing summer drink.

The Potential Food Safety Risk of Sun Tea

Although making Sun Tea is very simple and energy-efficient, it raises food safety concerns because the water doesn’t get hot enough to kill harmful bacteria. The ideal brewing temperature for tea is usually above 160 degrees Fahrenheit, but Sun Tea rarely reaches this temperature, even on the hottest days. This creates an environment where harmful bacteria, such as Alcaligenes viscolactis (a common waterborne microorganism), can multiply. Studies show that tea brewed below boiling temperatures and left at room temperature can promote bacterial growth that poses a risk, especially for those with weakened immune systems.

So, Should You Drink Sun Tea?

The answer really depends on how it’s prepared. If you love the nostalgic feel of Sun Tea but want to err on the side of caution, there are safer alternatives that maintain the same refreshing taste. One option is to cold brew tea. Simply steep tea bags in cold, filtered water in the refrigerator for six to 12 hours. This method not only avoids the food safety concerns but also results in a smooth, less bitter flavor that many people prefer.

Another safe option is to brew your tea the traditional way using boiling water, then let it cool and refrigerate for an iced version. This ensures that any harmful bacteria are eliminated during the hot brewing process. And regardless of your brewing method, always start with clean, sanitized containers and use clean hands to minimize the risk of contamination.

If you choose to continue making Sun Tea the traditional way, it’s important to be mindful of the potential health risks. To reduce the chance of bacterial growth, refrigerate the tea immediately after steeping and consume it within 24 hours.

The Bottom Line: Sun Tea holds a special place in many households, especially in Southern culture. It represents simplicity, nostalgia and the joy of warm-weather traditions. But even the most beloved traditions deserve a second look when it comes to food safety. While Sun Tea can offer a comforting, refreshing drink, the way it’s brewed creates conditions that may allow harmful bacteria to grow. And because the water never reaches temperatures high enough to kill those bacteria, there’s a real risk, especially for people with weakened immune systems, young children or older adults. It may be best to adapt those traditions to safer methods like cold brewing in the refrigerator or using hot water followed by refrigeration. These small changes still deliver the flavor, refreshment, and seasonal joy that Sun Tea is known for, but without the risk. After all, some traditions are worth keeping, especially when you can pass them on with both heart and health in mind.

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