Why can Green Tea and lightly fragrant Tieguanyin be stored in the fridge, while Pu'er tea and some other types of tea cannot?
Why Pu'er Tea Should Not Be Stored in the Fridge Like Green Tea
1. The fridge is humid with a high level of moisture, and Pu'er tea has excellent adsorption properties. Adsorbing moisture can cause the tea to become Damp and moldy.
2. Various fruits and vegetables are often stored in the fridge. Storing Pu'er tea in the fridge would cause it to adsorb unwanted odors and flavors, leading to off-tastes and spoilage.
3. The ideal storage temperature for Pu'er tea is typically around 30 degrees Celsius. The low temperature inside the fridge is not conducive to the tea's maturation process.
Pu'er tea is a fermented tea that contains beneficial microorganisms. The distinctive feature of Pu'er tea, where its flavor improves over time, is attributed to these enzymes. For enzymes to function effectively, they require a well-ventilated, cool, and dry environment. Therefore, it is best to store Pu'er tea at room temperature in a well-ventilated and dry place. Storing it in the fridge increases the risk of mold growth.
Pu'er tea is not very picky about its storage location. Whether in the living room or a dedicated space, as long as it is not exposed to direct sunlight, and is cool, ventilated, and away from pollutants or strong-smelling items like soap, mosquito repellent, or camphor, it will be fine. It is important to note that for new teas or those aged up to 30 years, the storage environment should be well-ventilated and dry.
The ideal container for storing Pu'er tea is a Clay Jar. If you have a large amount of tea, you can use a clay pot or clay cylinder. Clay products have good ventilation and breathability, making them perfect for storing Pu'er tea. There is no need to seal the opening of the pot; simply cover it with a layer of kraft paper to keep out dust. Turning the stored tea every 3-5 months can achieve twice the result with half the effort.