An Overview In this article we will delve into the rich and fascinating world of Chinese tea. We will explore the history and significance of tea in Chinese society, as well as the different types of tea and some of their most unique characteristics. We will also look at the various tea ceremonies and rituals […]

As we look forward to a brighter 2022, we’re excited about the growth in interest surrounding tea, as well as the growth in interest in herbal and wellness blends. The past two years has been bright for the industry, with more people becoming focused on health and wellbeing. This has been especially true for consumer […]

Article by Sharyn Johnston. It appears everyone has an opinion regarding what “specialty tea” means, and yet when you ask different people around the world, there are so many conflicting answers. Let’s look at some of the results. Firstly, what do some people in the coffee industry say defines “specialty coffee”? This may help us […]

It doesn’t take more than a few seconds when browsing online or the tea aisle in your local grocer to realize that we are blessed with a seemingly infinite number of tea varieties to enjoy. Yet, amidst the Earl Greys, spicy chai’s, aromatic jasmine teas, and countless other specialty teas and wellness blends… two varieties of tea reign supreme in both history AND popularity. Of course, we’re talking about green and black tea! Undoubtedly some of the most popular beverages around the world, both green and black tea have been adored for centuries for their refreshing taste, steady and manageable caffeine levels, and plethora of health benefits! In this helpful green tea vs black tea guide, we’re breaking down every major difference between these beloved tea types that avid tea drinkers and newbies alike should know. So, regardless of whether you’re trying to decide which option will be best help you reach your specific health and fitness goals or simply want to further your tea education, simply keep reading to discover in the primary difference (and few similarities!) between these two varieties of tea. Green Tea Vs Black Tea Similarities Before we jump head first into discussing the primary differences between green and black tea, let’s first briefly examine 2 ways in which these two powerhouse beverages are alike! Please consider the following similarities… Similarity #1: Origin Caption: Did you know? To make just 454 grams of tea it takes roughly 2,000 tea leaves! That’s the equivalent of using all the leaves from 2 fully grown, adult Camellia Sinensis over the course of an entire harvest season. Green tea was first steeped thousands of years ago and was highly regarded for its medicinal properties. Much later, around the late 16th century, black tea was discovered and quickly became extremely popular not only in China, but in India, England, and eventually the world. But, don’t let the difference in color or origin dates fool you… these two tea brothers are definitely from the same plant mother! You see, contrary to what one may think, green and black tea actually come from the same plant! Specifically, the plant we have to thank for green and black tea is called Camellia Sinensis, and it is originally native to South East Asia. Fun Fact: Camellia Sinensis is also responsible for giving us Oolong Tea and White tea, which when combined with black and green tea, account for the world’s 4 true teas. Similarity #2: An Abundance of Antioxidants Although their chemical compounds differ due to differences in processing (see further down), both green and black tea are super rich in good-for-you antioxidants, which provide a bounty of amazing health benefits! In green tea, these antioxidants are referred to as “Catechins”, while in black tea they take a new form and names due to oxidization (see further down). More specifically, these teas have in part received their claim to fame as a direct result of […]