Processing of Organic Green Tea

Whenever we discuss about Green tea most of the time we are talking about the benefits derived from it. It is as interesting as knowing about the way in which the green tea is processed as much as it is interesting to understand the health benefits that can be derived from green tea consumption.

There are different ways in which green tea is processed and grown depending upon the type of green tea you want. These are the methods that are undertaken to retain maximum amount of polyphenols and antioxidants. These are the two basic contents in organic Green Tea which counts for its maximum benefits. The conditions most suitable for growing can be broken down into two basic types, namely those grown under the shade and those grown in the sun. The plants of green tea are grown in the rows that are pruned so that they produce shoots in a regular manner. The plants of organic green tea are generally harvested thrice a year. It is in late April to early May that the first flush takes place, the second harvest takes place usually between June to July and the third picking commences in the late July to early August. At times fourth harvest is also carried out in order to take the best quality leaves which are priced as the most expensive option in the market.

The processing of Green tea is referred to as “aracha”. Under this method the Green Tea is stored under low humidity refrigeration in 30 or 60 kg bag at a temperature if 0-5° Celsius (32-41° F). The aracha is not yet prepared since it requires further refinement at this stage. This is the time when the final firing takes place only after which the process of blending, selection and packaging takes place. The leaves are again fired in this stage throughout the year as they are need. This gives the green tea a longer shelf life and better flavor. The first flush tea from may will then be stored in the same fashion until the harvest season of next year. This redrying process is followed by shifting and grading each crude tea according to its size. Only after this stage the blending is done in accordance to the blend orders by the taster and packed for sale.

The process of getting green tea does not include fermentation because of which the vital nutrients of organic green tea is not lost rather it is definitely one of the most nutritious beverages consumed by health enthusiasts and fitness lovers across different countries of the world.