When somebody sends you a hamper with various types of tea, you might wonder how to store the tea so that it preserves its flavour and aroma. There are a number of important points to remember in order to make sure that your tea holds on to all of its positive attributes.
When you have a number of different types of tea, you will most likely be inclined to open them all in order to sample the various flavours. Different types of tea compliment different types of food which is another reason why you will probably open several packages. If you don’t store the tea correctly, it can lose its initial appeal but, fortunately, there are some steps you can take to prevent this.
The first thing to avoid is direct sunlight. UV rays of the sun cause the tea to degrade. This is why you should always store your tea in a non-transparent container. It’s also important not to buy your tea from a vendor that stores the leaves in clear containers.
Heat can also degrade the tea which is another reason to keep it out of the sun. In addition, you should keep your tea away from any heat sources. Just remember that tea is steeped in hot water in order to extract the flavours so it makes sense that other sources of heat can also extract those flavours.
Keep your tea in a dry place. Moisture can be safely stored for extended periods of time provided they do not come into contact with moisture. Moisture has a way of building up in the air and, during the winter, some corners of your cupboards might even become so cold that they attract moisture and condensation forms.
Strong smells can penetrate a number of food products. Tea is like a sponge when it comes to absorbing strong odors. Keep your tea away from anything along the lines of cooked meals, onions, garlic, and so on. You should also avoid keeping tea near any spices.
Air exposure is also important to consider. The less contact your tea has with the surrounding air, the better. Store in airtight containers in order to protect against the affects of various air pollutants.