Whether you’re a casual sipper or a dedicated connoisseur, how you store your tea can make a significant difference in its flavour and freshness. Proper storage ensures that your tea remains as delightful on your last brew as it was on the first. In this post, we’ll explore the best practices for storing tea and the ideal places to keep your cherished leaves.
Why Proper Tea Storage Matters
Tea is a delicate product, and several factors can quickly degrade its quality:
- Light: Exposure to light, especially sunlight, can break down the chemical compounds in tea, causing it to lose flavour and aroma. Tea should be stored in a dark cupboard in an opaque container, so avoid glass jars!
- Air: Oxygen can oxidize tea leaves, leading to a stale or off taste, particularly in green and white teas, which are more sensitive to oxidation. Thus tea needs to be kept in an air tight container either need to be a re-sealable pouch or an airtight tin. Just so long as it seals and is airtight.
- Moisture: Tea is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. Any moisture can cause mold and ruin the tea.
- Dry: Ensure the tea is kept dry as it absorbs water from the air very easily. You’ll also benefit by keeping the tea away from humid areas, like above a dishwasher vent or in a refrigerator. You won’t want to expose your tea to liquid moisture either unless you’re brewing it. Keep it dry to ensure the tea does not go mouldy.
- Cool– keep tea cool, as like light, tea is affected by heat. A cool location like a cupboard is perfect. The tea doesn’t require refrigerating though.
- Odours: Tea leaves can easily absorb surrounding odours, which can alter their flavour. Storing tea near strong-smelling foods or substances is a no-go. Additionally, keep delicate teas, such as Jasmine, separate from strongly scented teas
- Temperature: High temperatures can accelerate the degradation of tea, diminishing its flavour and aroma.
General Guidelines for Storing Tea
- Use Airtight Containers:
- Store your tea in airtight containers to protect it from air, moisture, and odours. Metal tins with tight-fitting lids or dark glass jars are ideal. Avoid clear glass containers unless you keep them in a dark cabinet, as light can degrade the tea.
- Store in a Cool, Dark Place:
- A pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight and heat sources is the best place to store tea. High temperatures can alter the flavour, so avoid storing tea near the stove, oven, or other heat-emitting appliances.
- Avoid Refrigeration:
- Unless storing certain Green or White teas for a long period, refrigeration is generally not recommended. The fridge can be moist and full of odours that the tea can absorb. If you must refrigerate, ensure the tea is sealed in an airtight container and let it return to room temperature before opening to avoid condensation.
- Keep Tea Away from Strong Odours:
- Tea is like a sponge for smells, so it’s crucial to store it away from pungent foods and spices. Don’t store it next to the coffee beans, as the strong aroma can seep into your tea leaves.
- Use Small Containers for Frequent Use:
- If you have a large quantity of tea, consider storing it in a large container and transferring smaller amounts to a smaller container for daily use. This limits the exposure to air and keeps the majority of your tea fresher for longer.
Storing Different Types of Tea
Different types of tea require slightly different storage conditions to maintain their peak flavour and quality. Here’s how to handle the most common varieties:
- Green and White Teas:
- These teas are the most delicate and should be consumed within six months to a year of purchase. Store them in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. If you live in a very hot climate, you might consider refrigerating them in a tightly sealed container, but be cautious of moisture.
- Oolong Teas:
- Oolong teas fall between Green and Black teas in terms of oxidation. They should be stored similarly to black teas but may not last as long. Plan to use them within a year for optimal flavour.
- Black Teas:
- Black teas are more oxidized, making them more robust and less prone to degradation. They can last up to two years if stored properly. Follow the general storage guidelines for the best results.
- Herbal Teas:
- Herbal teas, which are technically not “tea” but infusions of herbs, flowers, or fruits, should be stored like true teas. However, they can be more prone to absorbing odours, so be extra cautious about where and how you store them.
- Pu-erh Teas:
- Pu-erh is unique in that it can improve with age. Store it in a well-ventilated area where it can breathe, away from strong odours. Traditionalists often store Pu-erh in paper wrappings or unglazed clay jars.
Best Places to Store Tea
- Pantry or Kitchen Cabinet: This is often the most convenient and effective place to store tea. Choose a cool, dark cabinet away from heat and moisture.
- Tea Chest or Drawer: If you have a large collection, consider dedicating a drawer or a tea chest to store your varieties. This will keep them organized and protected.
- Specialty Tea Storage Boxes: These boxes are designed to hold tea in individual compartments, often with airtight seals, providing both organization and protection.
- Cooler Basement: For long-term storage, especially of larger quantities or rare teas, a cooler, dry basement area can be ideal, provided it is free from moisture and strong odours.
Tea Storage Materials:
- Use opaque packaging if possible.
- Be sure your packaging is food-safe (for example, don’t use a pencil case to hold tea).
- Glazed ceramics, non-reactive metals, and opaque, non-leaching plastics all make great packaging materials.
- The bags that suppliers sell tea in vary widely in terms of quality. For long-term storage, make sure your bags are multi-ply with an inner layer of foil or glassine (a substance similar to wax paper). This avoids contamination by water, air or grease.
Tips
- Buy fresh tea in small quantities. If you live in an area where good tea is hard to find, ask your favourite vendors if they offer shipping.
- Only open what you can drink in the next few months. Unless they are well-stored aged Pu-erh’s or aged Oolongs, don’t hold onto teas for years. Instead, drink them when they are at their freshest and best.
Conclusion
Storing tea properly is essential for maintaining its freshness and flavour. By understanding the unique needs of different types of tea and following the best storage practices, you can ensure that every cup you brew is as enjoyable as the first. Remember, tea is an investment in your well-being, so taking a little extra care in storing it goes a long way in preserving its quality. Happy brewing!
