Imagine buying a fresh batch of loose leaf teas, rich in flavor, aroma, and a taste of heaven. I know it's amazing. Teas can be amazing, especially if they're loose leaf. However, storing them can be tricky, and if not stored properly, loose leaf teas can become bitter and flavorless due to oxidation.
Fortunately, loose leaf teas can be easily stored and stay fresh longer. Here are some of the best ways to store loose leaf teas.
Choosing the right container
Stainless steel containers are the best way to store loose leaf teas because they tend to block sunlight better than glass containers and prevent oxidation.
While it is always advisable to store your loose leaf teas in stainless steel containers , storing them in colored glass containers or paper bags until you get your steel containers is also fine.
Avoid basic mistakes
No matter what container you choose to store your loose leaf teas in, things can still go wrong if you don't avoid some of these common mistakes.
Keeping your spices and loose leaf tea separate would be a good idea. Teas can absorb flavors very easily, and throwing your loose leaves next to your spices can affect its taste.
Avoid using plastic to store your teas, as plastics are known to absorb odors and can easily destroy the aroma, taste, and possibly the flavor of your loose leaf teas.
But what if you keep your teas in the fridge? I mean, that sounds like a viable option, right? No sun, no plastic, and no spices.
No! Storing your teas in the refrigerator isn't even an option. The humidity inside your refrigerator can damage the texture of the tea, making it flavorless and immune to brewing.
This brings me to the next point, that is,
Store your teas at room temperature
It is always advisable to store your loose leaf teas at room temperature. Temperature fluctuations can damage your tea, and keeping it in a room with a relatively constant temperature can prevent damage caused by temperature fluctuations. Avoid heaters, air conditioners, and windows for best results.
Heat and humidity aren't always good. Avoid areas near sinks, boiling water, and any other areas in your home near water sources.
Avoid oxygen
Unlike you and me, your teas don't need oxygen. Even when you store your teas in an airtight container, some air always manages to get left behind, and what's more, airtight doesn't mean "airless."
Most teas are vacuum-packed, and these seals are a great way to ensure teas last longer. However, vacuum seals can crush delicate leaves and produce dusty pieces of tea leaves.
Therefore, your best bet is to use an oxygen-absorbing bag, which usually contains iron and salt. These bags may be best for long-term storage and ensure less damage to loose teas.