Understanding Loose-Leaf Tea Culture
The world of tea is wide and diverse. From “tea dustings” which are found in grocery stores, broken tea leaves to the whole tea leaf, the highest grade of tea leaf, each tea drinker has their preference. While some are only comfortable with sticking to ordinary “tea dustings,” which are the left overs from the tea production process, other tea enthusiasts crave something more. This article will explain what loose-leaf tea culture is, and why it attracts those who desire a higher-quality and more flavorful cup of tea.
If you are unfamiliar with the world of loose-leaf tea and its benefits, this is normal. Most tea drinkers in the USA, for example, may have heard of loose-leaf tea, but they have not been educated on the subject. By contrast, many in Europe and Asia, are accustomed to enjoying premium, whole tea leaves. So, what is the loose-leaf tea culture like? Why do certain people gravitate to it? David, the author of this article who was introduced to loose-leaf tea more than 10 years ago is good example of this target audience. He no longer drinks tea dustings unless he has no choice.
First off, loose-leaf tea is the highest grade of tea leaf. Providing a more flavorful tea drinking experience while introducing your body to more nutrients, it is not your average tea! Considered premium quality, whole tea leaves are the ideal product of the tea rolling process. Because these whole leaves are not broken-in-half or are not the byproduct of tea rolling, they have a larger surface area. As a result, they contain more flavor, more antioxidants, more nutrients, and more caffeine. So, besides the obvious, is this the only benefit? No, loose-leaf drinkers not only prefer a more refined cup of tea, but by using whole tea leaves they can get access to more servings per bag. This not only saves them money, but they can also extend their tea purchases further than tea dustings. Now, if you are accustomed to Lipton tea commonly found in the USA, this concept is likely unfamiliar. You can only steep Lipton pouches once before they lose their flavor. By contrast, you can steep whole leaf tea at least twice and it still retains its taste.
Secondly, the ideal consumer for the loose-leaf tea market values new, exciting blends. Joyce Country Cafe offers several examples. From original creations such as Citrus Bliss to new takes on old classics, such as Earl Grey Crème, their customers experience an adventurous take on tea. While those comfortable with tea dustings may not desire this, the world of loose-leaf tea offers new opportunities for others.
Thirdly, the loose-leaf tea market introduces several types of new teas such as oolong tea, Pu-erh tea, White tea, and a large variety of herbals teas. Red Rooibos, as an example, is a herbal tea from Africa which is commonly found in complex and comforting herbal teas. Or, take Yerba Mate, a herbal tea from South America. Containing the highest level of caffeine in any teas, it is almost exclusively considered a loose-leaf tea. The world of tea dustings cannot compete against this wide assortment.
And lastly, those who enjoy a cup brewed from whole tea leaves also do so because it better fits their needs. If, for example, you find dustings of chamomile and lavender do not quite put you in a relaxed state of mind, you might prefer the whole flowers. Or, if you want a higher dose of caffeine in the morning, you will find more successful with whole-leaf tea. While tea dustings and broken leaves can partially meet these needs, the world of loose-leaf tea provides the greatest effect.
With all this said, however, pre-packaged tea dustings are still of value, but in limited form. If you are comfortable with only steeping it once for maximum flavor, lesser health benefits, the limited variety, or the easy access in grocery stores, then you fit that target market of the tea world. But, if you want to try something new and exciting, it is worth at least diving into the world of loose-leaf tea. You never know, you may enjoy it.
