During holidays, many Tea enthusiasts receive a considerable amount of tea. However, it's often the case that you can't finish drinking all the tea right away, which brings up the question of how to store it properly. The gift box packaging that usually comes with tea isn't ideal for long-term storage. Therefore, after bringing the tea home, it needs to be repackaged and stored correctly.
Typically, we might consider putting opened packages in the Refrigerator, but this is problematic since other foods are also stored there, which can lead to the tea absorbing unwanted odors. Opening and closing the refrigerator can also cause the tea to become damp. Without a dedicated refrigerator for tea, it may actually spoil more easily.
For daily household storage of small quantities of tea, you can try this method:
Wrap the tea in kraft paper or another thick type of paper. The moisture content of the tea should be low, such that when you crush the leaves between your fingers, they turn into powder. Place the wrapped tea around the sides of a high-quality Ceramic jar and put a packet of block-shaped lime in the center, adjusting its size based on the amount of tea. Finally, use cotton or a thick, soft pad to cover the lid to minimize air exchange. The lime should be replaced every one to two months based on its moisture absorption level. This method can preserve the tea for about half a year.
Jar Storage Method
If it's difficult to find a ceramic jar at home, a common alternative is an iron canister. Any tin can from the market, or even a metal box or canister used for storing food or pastries, will work, preferably with a double-layered iron lid for better moisture protection. If you already have a specialized tea canister, that would be even better, as these tend to have better seals and attractive designs featuring landscapes and flowers, making them decorative as well. Storing tea in an iron canister is simple, convenient, and commonly used in households. Usually, all you need to do is place the tea inside a clean iron canister and add one or two packets of desiccant to keep the canister dry.
If the canister is new or has previously contained other items, you can first place a small amount of tea residue inside and close the lid for a few days to absorb any unwanted odors. Alternatively, you can press the tea lightly against the walls of the canister to remove any unwanted smells. It's best to keep the canister in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This helps prevent rusting and slows down the aging and degradation of the tea.
Plastic bag Storage Method
Plastic bags are widely used and versatile packaging materials, available in various types and at affordable prices, making them convenient for use. Storing tea in plastic bags is one of the simplest and most cost-effective methods for household storage, with no limitations on capacity. When using plastic bags to store tea, the key is to choose the right material.
First, make sure the bag is food-grade and hasn't been used for other items or foods. Second, use a bag made from high-density material, ideally with a sealable closure. Third, choose a thicker and stronger bag. Additionally, ensure the bag is intact, free from Odor, and clean and dry. To reduce aroma loss and improve moisture resistance, you can use double-layered plastic bags. After the initial packaging, place another bag over it, tie it securely, and store it in a cool, dry place for good preservation results.