Loose Tea or Loose-Leaf Tea

Loose tea refers to non bagged tea hence the term loose or non bound tea. The tea leaves can derive from all over the world and are packaged usually in a tin canister or other concealed container. Certain types of tea leaves which do not crumble as easy are commonly vacuum packed for freshness for retail and storage purposes. Loose tea portions must be individually measured and brewed by the consumer for use in a cup, mug, or teapot. Loose tea allows the tea drinker to have more control of the taste of the tea by letting the consumer brew milder or stronger tea as one desires. The brewing control does provide one with the ability to tailor make tea to one’s own taste however it is less convenient than prepackaged teabags. Tea infusers, strainers, filtered teapots, and infusion bags, are available at stores to avoid drinking loose leaves and to prevent over-brewing of the tea.

Tea Bags

Tea leaves are packed into a small handy paper packages with a dip string. Tea Bags are easy and convenient and is used by millions of people today. Tea experts claim that although convenient, bagged tea has an inferior taste and experience. The paper is sometimes detected by tea drinkers which can detract from the tea's flavor. Because bagged tea is generally a lower quality tea it is a little more sensitive to brewing time and temperature.

Tea Shelf Life and Expiration Date

Tea shelf life can vary depending on the storage conditions of the tea and by the type of tea stored. Moisture and open air container dryness are not recommended. Green tea has a shorter shelf life than Black tea. Black tea which is properly stored can last for up to two years. Green tea loses its freshness faster, generally a year is considered about as long as it can last and still remain acceptable.
Tea remains best when stored in a dry, cool, dark place. Keep it in an air-tight container for best results. Tea storage life for most all teas can be extended by using oxygen absorbing packets, and by vacuum sealing the tea while in storage. Refrigeration or freezing Green tea can prolong freshness or shelf life. Improperly stored tea may lose flavor, it may dry out or even worse it may turn moldy.

Black Tea

Black tea is popular tea and has many variations and flavors. Black tea is also one of the most oxidized of all the varieties. Several varieties of Black tea are made from leaves of Camellia sinensis. Black tea contains more caffeine and is generally stronger in taste and is the least oxidized. Two main varieties of Black Tea is used, the small-leaved Chinese variety plant, and the large-leaved assamese plant.

Green Tea

Green Tea is made exclusively with the leaves of camellia sinensis an it has minimal oxidation during processing. Green tea originates from China and is a mainstay in Asian culture. Green Tea has recently become more accepted in the West where black tea is traditionally consumed. Many varieties of green tea have been developed to accommodate specific regional tastes. These varieties can differ largely depending on growing conditions, processing procedures and harvesting. Green Tea has been said to lower the chances of developing certain types of cancer and can aid in weight loss.

Oolong Tea

Oolong Tea is a traditional Chinese tea, camellia sinensis with moderate oxidation. Oolong tea tastes more similar to green tea than black tea. Oolong Tea is commonly brewed to be strong, with the bitterness leaving a sweet memorable taste. Some varieties of oolong, including those produced in the central mountains of Taiwan, are among the most famous Chinese teas. Oolong tea leaves are processed in two different ways. Some teas are rolled into long curly leaves, while some are pressed into a ball-like form.

Instant Tea

Instant teas are becoming more acceptable as it is convenient and easy to make. Instant tea was developed in the 1930s, but not widely available until the late 1950s. Instant Teas often come with added flavors, such as vanilla, fruit flavors and honey. Tea critics tend to criticize these products for sacrificing tea flavor for convenience.