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How to store tea

"The best quality tea must have the creases like the leather boots of Tartar horsemen, curl like the dewlap of a mighty bullock, unfold like a mist rising out of a ravine, gleam like a lake touched by a zephyr, and be wet and soft like earth newly swept by rain"
—Lu Yu 
  

When we invest in quality tea, we want the most out of it. Here are some tips on how to properly store your loose leaf tea:
  • Tea is best kept at room temperature. Rapid temperature changes will damage tea. Keep tea away from heaters, air conditioners, and windows, especially during the harsher seasons.
  • Make sure to keep tea in a dry place. Humidity will ruin tea.
  • Tea absorbs nearby odors and aromas, so keep it away from strong spices. It is best not to keep tea close to where food gets cooked or in places with a lot of smoke.

     

    Do not put your tea in the refrigerator unless the container is vacuum-sealed. If the container isn't sealed properly, the leaves may dry out. Also, aside from the cold temperature, refrigerators generate moisture. Condensation may also occur when the container is taken out of the fridge, due to the temperature difference. Once taken out from a refrigerator, it is best to allow the container to warm up to room temperature before opening. Lastly, tea in the fridge can easily absorb the smells of other foods stored there.

    • Make sure to use an airtight container when storing tea. Tea exposed to the open air for lengthy periods will lose moisture, flavor, and quality.

    • The best way to store loose leaf tea is in a stainless steel container or in an airtight bag lined with aluminum foil. The second best option is a tinted/colored glass container. Avoid using clear glass jars to protect the tea from being exposed to direct sunlight. The darker the storage location, the better.

    • Never store tea in plastic.