Your loose-leaf tea's appearance, aroma, and flavor will all indicate whether it has gone bad or not. Here are some warning signs that it needs to be changed: - Change in appearance: If the color or brittleness of your tea has changed, it is time to replace it because it has gone bad. - Lack of aroma: If your tea no longer has an aroma, it probably no longer has a strong flavor and needs to be replaced. - Change in flavor: If your tea starts to taste musty, moldy, or sour, it has gone bad and should be discarded. - Mold: If you see any mold growth on your tea, that means it has gone bad and needs to be thrown out right away. It is best to regularly inspect your loose-leaf tea for signs of spoilage, including changes in appearance, flavor, and aroma.