Loose-Leaf Tea: The Real Deal

What exactly is loose-leaf tea? Is it really better than tea bags? Here is what we want you to know. 

Loose-leaf tea is whole or broken leaves, loosely packed and typically available in bulk. Loose-leaf tea requires the use of some type of tea infuser. 

On the other hand, typical tea bags in the supermarket, while convenient and low-cost,  are filled with tiny pieces of tea leaves. This is sometimes called tea “dust” and is a lower-quality product. When tea leaves are broken down, they begin to lose their natural oils, along with their robust flavor. Loose-leaf teas, however, retain more natural oils, providing a richer flavor and aroma.

Along with a richer flavor, loose-leaf tea contains more disease-fighting antioxidants. So a morning cup brewed from loose-leaf tea has more health benefits than the bagged tea fragments from the grocery store. 

Another testament to the strength of loose-leaf tea is the fact that you can use the same leaves for several cups. In fact, some tea lovers prefer the second cup, claiming the flavors are more mellow and nuanced.

Brewing loose-leaf tea does require an extra step or two, but with the right tools, it isn’t complicated. To properly brew, the tea leaves need some room to expand as they steep. You can use a metal infuser basket, tea ball, tea strainer, or even a French coffee press.

At Green Ridge Acres, we stock a wide variety of loose-leaf teas. We also have tea balls and tea infusers – all you need to brew that perfect cup!