The Proper Way to Store Tea

Much like good coffee storage, proper tea storage is imperative to its shelf life, quality, and flavor. Learn how to keep your tea fresh and delicious with these easy tea storage tips. You'll have to consider the location, packaging material and packaging mechanism you're using to store your tea. Here are the best practices for each.

Location:

· Store far away from anything with a strong odor.

· Store in a dark cabinet or completely opaque container.

· Keep delicate teas separate from strongly scented teas.

· Avoid storing tea in humid areas of your kitchen or house.

Tea Storage Materials:

· Use opaque packaging if possible.Tinplate is the best choice by the way.

· Be sure your packaging is food-safe (for example, don't use a pencil case to hold tea). Itinbox® tea tin box packaging is quite food-safe and environmental.

· Glazed ceramics, non-reactive metals, and opaque, non-leaching plastics all make great packaging materials.

· Wood packaging may be a workable option, but be aware that many wood containers have odors that can influence the tea's taste.

· The bags that suppliers sell tea in vary widely in terms of quality. For long-term storage, make sure your bags are multi-ply with an inner layer of foil or glassine (a substance similar to wax paper). This avoids contamination by water, air or grease.

Tea Storage Mechanisms

A tight seal is key. If the mechanism can hold water, it can protect tea. Good options include:

· Double lids tea tin (these are common with metal tea tin canisters).

· Odor-free silicone seals (also common with metal canisters).

· Multi-ply bags with resealable plastic 'zippers.'