Storing Tea
Although each type of tea has a different shelf life, it's best to use or tea within 6 to 12 months of purchase. Green teas perish the quckest and begin to deteriorate within a year of harvest. Oolong and black teas retain their characteristics for several years.
Keep your loose-leaf teas stored in a cool, dark place to preserve their freshness. Avoid exposing the tea to light. Always store your teas in opaque (non-clear) jars with airtight lids.
Another factor contributing to a tea's longetivity is the way in which the tea leaf is rolled. Tea leaves rolled into pellets (Gunpowder and Imperial green teas) or twisted (like the black Yunnan) last longer than an open, flat leaf, because less of their surface area is exposed to air. Whatever tea you choose, remember to treat it as you would a delicate spice. Keep it away from heat, moisture, and, of course, other strongly scented teas or spices.
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