There are various accessories for storing tea: metal tins, wooden boxes, bags. Even if the latter is somewhat overlooked in favor of tea tins, it has its advantages. Why choose a bag for storing tea? Is the bag suitable for storing loose leaf tea? And for which type of tea? We offer some advice to incorporate into your daily routine. Because a great tea tasting starts with proper storage.
Loose leaf tea: the bag option for storage
Generally stored in a tea tin, the bag can also be a good storage option for your loose leaf tea or herbal infusions. The key is to preserve the flavor and qualities of your tea. Choosing a good tea storage bag means choosing an airtight bag.
Indeed, there are several factors to take into account for proper tea storage in a bag:
- Moisture: very harmful to tea leaves — be careful when storing in your refrigerator, make sure to close your bags properly for good preservation. Water only goes well with your tea when it is nice and hot for a proper infusion.
- Temperature: store your bagged teas in a place away from any heat source, so keep them as far as possible from your cooking areas.
- Light: the bag is a good means of storing tea as it does not let light through — opt for storage in a cupboard.
- Odors: store your loose tea bags away from coffee, chocolate or spices — even if your storage bag is airtight, you wouldn't want these odors to alter the flavor of your tea.
- The refrigerator: only for your green teas (especially matcha), yellow or white teas, and always in an airtight bag to avoid moisture and odors.
Loose leaf tea: the practicality of the bag for storage
An airtight bag is good packaging as a means of storing tea. If properly stored, tea can be consumed up to two years after purchase. The expiry date is indicated on the packaging. If you opt for different bags from the original ones, remember to write down the date. Beyond that, the tea is still drinkable but loses some of its flavor.
Using a bag as a storage method is also very convenient for everyday use:
- Fitted with a heat-seal opening, the tea bag can be resealed at will. Simply make sure to remove the air from the bag for proper storage. If it does not have this type of opening, opt for a bag clip.
- The tea bag takes up little space in your cupboards or refrigerator. It is also easier to transport if you decide to take your teas on vacation or to work.
The bag is more recommended for storing your black teas such as oolong. Green, white or yellow teas are indeed more sensitive. If the airtightness of your tea bags is paramount, also opt for packaging made with a food-grade liner rather than a simple soft bag. The storage of your tea will only be better — and so will your tasting.
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