leaves are plucked is hastened by circulating air through the plucked leaves to lessen the moisture content then dropping them into giant rolling machines which gently bruise and roll the leaves.

These ruptured leaves start oxidizing and are passed on conveyor belts into ovens where the oxidization ceases and the moisture content is reduced to around 4% The leaves emerge black and hardened/ready for cooling and grading. Oolongs are semi-fermented and green teas are pan fired or steamed almost immediately after picking to halt the oxidization process.

How Much Caffeine Is There in Tea?
An average 6oz cup of tea contains approximately 34 mg of caffeine compared with 99mg in the same size serving of coffee.

What are Anti-Oxidants?
Our bodies are constantly impacted by the toxic side effects of normal cell metabolism which result in oxidants/free radicals circulating through the body and are capable of damaging proteins, membranes and DNA. Anti-Oxidants are compounds which suppress free radicals, Green teas contain the highest quantities of the major anti-oxidant EGCG Oolongs have some and black teas least of all but are still beneficial. At The Bean on 41 in addition to our huge selection of premium black, oolong pouchong, green and white teas and tisanes, we are currently sourcing assayed teas which have a guaranteed 7% EGCG content thus maximizing the anti-oxidant effects.

How Should I Store Tea? Specialist, premium teas should be stored in an airtight container in a cool place away from direct light. NEVER store tea in the refrigerator! Never place it beside herbs and spices. Our tea is sold in special triple-lined bags which virtually eliminate the possibility of transference of flavors which would taint the tea. An airtight tin or tea caddy is ideal.

How Do I Prepare my Tea?
Generally speaking, black teas are prepared with fresh, fast-boiling water. Oolongs require freshly drawn water about 190 degrees, green teas should be prepared around 170-180 degrees and white teas about 170.

What About Teabags?
When asked this question my answer is usually an emphatic NO!! (You will NOT find any teabags in use or for sale in our store)  If you consider that during the processing of tea, there are fine leaf particles (fannings) and tea dust which are residual and unfortunately these are what usually are used to fill commercial teabags. If you find a Guaranteed Whole leaf tea bag such as those produced by Numi Teas you will be able to enjoy a fairly good cup --but to enjoy an exceptional cup, premium loose tea is the answer.

Next month we’ll take a look at Tea Etiquette and how it has evolved and effected society through the ages. If you have any questions we would be delighted to hear from you or better yet; “Meet you at The Bean!!”

Editor's Note: Elizabeth (Elly) Gilmore and her husband Bob own and operate the "Bean on 41," a wonderful Coffee and Tea House located at  2705 Tamiami Trail in Punta Gorda (941) 575-1212. Stop by sometime soon and say hi.... We can guarantee that you will be back again and again!