For Tea enthusiasts, the sweltering heat of summer calls for some refreshing and cooling teas.

And for the tea itself, the scorching season also demands proper preservation.

If the focus of spring storage is on moisture prevention, then the summer emphasis lies in “heat protection.”

Summer Tea Storage: The “Five Preventives”

Dry and cold autumn and winter months are relatively easier on tea, preventing spoilage. Spring and summer, however, are crucial times for tea preservation.

● First, prevent moisture

Although summer isn't as humid as spring, there's still plenty of rain. Tea readily absorbs moisture from the air, so it's essential to seal the packaging tightly and not expose it to open air.

● Second, guard against high temperatures

Just like how heat can cause people to suffer from heatstroke, tea is also vulnerable to heat. In summer, be sure not to place tea near hot windows; a cool spot is best.

Third, avoid odors

High temperatures make tea more susceptible to absorbing odors. Ensure that tea is stored away from strong smells and not mixed with items with potent aromas.

● Fourth, shield from intense light

In summer, keep tea out of direct sunlight and avoid using transparent containers or bags for storage.

● Fifth, prevent oxidation

This means keeping oxygen at bay. Seal the containers tightly, and if possible, use an oxygen absorber or vacuum-seal the tea.

Why is Tea Storage Important?

● Moisture causes dampness in tea

Tea, with its porous structure and hygroscopic properties, has a strong tendency to absorb moisture.

If the tea crumbles easily when pressed, it's likely dry. If it feels soft, take caution.

● Air leads to oxidation

Many active components in tea are prone to oxidation, especially polyphenols and Vitamin C.

Oxygen can cause green tea to turn yellow and black tea to become brown, diminishing aroma and freshness.

● Light alters the color of tea

Tea is sensitive to light, particularly chlorophyll, which degrades under light exposure, darkening the tea.

Lipids exposed to light can oxidize into lower molecular compounds, causing the tea to develop stale flavors.

● High temperatures lead to spoilage

Encountering high temperatures can cause tea to change color and flavor. Temperature significantly influences the rate of oxidation in tea. Research suggests that every 10°C increase in temperature accelerates browning in both dry tea and brewed tea by three to five times.

● Odors alter the taste of tea

Due to its porous structure, tea not only absorbs moisture and oxygen but also picks up odors easily. This includes environmental odors and potential off-flavors from packaging materials.

How to Store Different Types of Tea?

● Green Tea

Green tea, known for its “three greens” (dry leaves, infusion, and infused leaves), is the most delicate among the six major types of tea and is highly susceptible to changes in color and flavor.

It's best stored in a refrigerator, ideally at around 0°C to 5°C. Remember to seal it tightly before refrigeration to avoid absorbing odors.

● Yellow Tea

Place yellow tea in a sealed container, and if available, add a small packet of preservative. Unlike green tea, yellow tea doesn't spoil as quickly. Cool and dark storage conditions are sufficient, though refrigeration is also an option.

● Black Tea

The rich aroma and flavor of black tea can fade quickly if improperly stored.

Store black tea in metal cans, Ceramic jars, or other airtight containers. If using a tea bag, ensure it's tightly sealed with a clip.

Oolong Tea

Teas like Tieguanyin, Phoenix Dancong, and Rock Tea all belong to the oolong category. Oolong tea is characterized by its high fragrance, which needs to be preserved during storage.

When filling the container, ensure the tea is packed tightly to minimize loss of aroma and flavor.

● Dark Tea and White Tea

These two types of tea are suitable for long-term storage. When storing them, ensure good ventilation, dryness, and isolation from odors.

During storage, try to keep them elevated, as the ground tends to be more humid. Proper storage enhances the flavor over time.

In summary, during the peak of summer, improper storage can significantly degrade the quality of tea, causing even the finest sought-after teas to lose their luster.

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