Best Practices for Storage
Mate leaves can be stored in the fridge for up to 6 months in an airtight container before going bad. The optimal temperature for storing is between 32°F and 41°F. If mate develops mold on its surface, it is not safe to consume due to health risks. The best storage containers for preserving freshness are airtight containers of glass or stainless steel because moisture and odors can’t seep in which decreases mold growth.
If you’ve brewed too much mate or you want to enjoy it iced, you can store it in the fridge for up to five days, without added sugar. For longer shelf life, store plain and add sweeteners to each cup.
The shelf life of mate depends on factors like quality of leaves, storage container, and environment. Proper storage preserves flavor and aroma while improper storage causes fast deterioration.
Cold Brewing Mate
For cold brewing, use fresh high-quality mate leaves in a 1:4 ratio. Steep in the fridge for 12+ hours. Flavors like mint, lavender or sweeteners like honey, agave enhance taste. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Mate Popularity and Origins
Mate is popular in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. It’s consumed 6 to 1 over coffee in these countries. Mate origins explain how it became popular in South America.
Keeping Mate Fresh
To keep mate fresh, store in original bag in a dry, cool, dark place not exposed to temperature changes. Room temperature storage works well. For chimarráo store in freezer. Can also store in airtight container. Once opened, tea bags should be used within months.
Transporting Mate
Transporting mate can be messy. A quick DIY storage method is a plastic ziploc bag. Stops dust on clothes and spilled bags in luggage.
There are 4 main methods of preparing mate:
- traditional method
- french press
- tea bag
- cold brew
Can mix with herbs or ingredients to improve flavor/effects like green tea. Mate energizes body and mind as a natural, safe alternative to coffee or energy drinks.
Yerba mate is a plant native to South America. The leaves are used to make a tea called mate. It has caffeine and antioxidants.
Storing Yerba Mate
Store yerba mate in a cool, dry place to extend its shelf life. Check it for mold, smell, taste, or color changes. Discard it if there are signs of spoilage.
Expired mate can be used as a fertilizer or homemade scrub. However, consuming expired mate may decrease its flavor and health benefits.
Mate can typically last 1-2 years stored properly. It’s best kept in an airtight container in the fridge. Frozen mate should also be kept in an airtight container.
Enjoying Mate
When drinking mate, the gourd can be refilled until the flavor is gone, which can be 10-30 times. Leftover mate from the day before can also be reused.
Yerba mate is rich in minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. It has subtle flavors that can develop with aging. Too much humidity destroys the subtle flavors.
Storage
To extend the lifespan of Guayaki mate, store it in a cool, dry place. Drinking large amounts of yerba mate (1-2 liters daily) for a long time increases the risk of some types of cancer.
Overview
In the U.S., mate is widely available. Proponents say it can relieve fatigue, promote weight loss, ease depression, and treat headaches. There’s no evidence these claims are valid. One possible risk is that mate contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are carcinogenic. More investigation is needed into the safety of mate. If it’s your cup of tea, enjoy in moderation.
Guayaki is a fair trade certified seller of organic mate. Their business model allows investment in the rainforest community. The mate is shade-grown by small farmers, improving the flavor and nutrition. It contains vitamins, antioxidants, and more than green tea.
Buying Guayakí Mate
If you want authentic mate, Guayakí may not be widely available. Despite this, it should be on your mind. If you’ve researched mate online, you’ve likely seen this brand. It’s easier to buy a pre-cultivated plant. Check shops, Amazon, or medicinal stores. Prices range from $10-$35 depending on plant size.