Many different types and varieties of tea can seem confusing and overwhelming. What exactly is the difference between black tea and green tea?
All teas come from the same plant called Camellia sinensis. This plant originated in southern China thousands of years ago, and has been cultivated and consumed for hundreds of years.
Black tea, green tea, white tea, oolong tea are all made from the same plant called Camellia sinensis. This plant originated in southern China thousands of years ago, and has been cultivated and consumed for hundreds of years. Each of these teas develops its unique characteristics through different harvesting and processing methods.
The main difference between black and green tea is how they’re processed and the level of oxidation they experience. In simple terms, oxidation just means that the tea leaves have been exposed to oxygen for a period of time. If you’ve ever seen an apple slice turn brown, you’ve experienced oxidation!
• Green tea is heat-fixed after a short withering step to prevent oxidation
• Black tea is allowed to oxidize fully in higher heat and moisture conditions before heat-fixing.
Black tea and green tea also differ in terms of their caffeine levels. Black tea is typically high in caffeine, containing about half as much caffeine as a cup of coffee. Green tea is usually lower in caffeine.
No matter what kind of tea you choose to drink, rest assured that you’ll be getting a healthful, flavorful cup!