When tea enthusiasts come across a fine tea, they often buy some to keep at home-to savour a cup in their spare time or brew a pot when friends visit… Storing tea, therefore, is a task that requires a great deal of care.
If stored incorrectly, you may find that when you brew it again, the flavour is completely different from what it was originally. That would be such a shame. Below, we'll explain in detail how to store tea at home.
Understanding the Main Factors Contributing to Tea Deterioration
01. Light
Exposure to light can accelerate various chemical reactions, which may have an adverse effect on tea storage; therefore, tea should be stored away from light.
02. Temperature
The higher the temperature, the faster the tea will age. Experimental results show that for every 10-degree rise in temperature, the rate of tea ageing increases by a factor of 3 to 5.
If tea is stored in a cold store at temperatures below 10 degrees, the browning process can be effectively delayed.
03. Moisture
Moisture is an essential factor in many of the chemical reactions that occur during the ageing of tea. Research suggests that when the moisture content of tea is around 3 per cent, the oxidation and deterioration of lipids can be effectively delayed. However, when the moisture content exceeds 6 per cent, the rate of ageing accelerates dramatically.
04. Oxygen
Oxygen can react with many of the chemical components in tea, causing them to oxidise and deteriorate. For example, catechins, vitamin C, tea polyphenols, theaflavins, thearubigins and esters in tea are all susceptible to oxidation and deterioration; therefore, tea is best stored in an oxygen-free environment.
Key Points for Storing Tea
Protect from pressure, moisture, and odours; keep sealed and away from light.
Generally, the aroma and flavour of tea will change to some extent after storage; however, if exposed to high temperatures, high humidity or direct sunlight, the tea will age and deteriorate within a short period of time.
