Common Misconceptions About Tea Consumption

Tea, with its rich cultural heritage and health associations, is surrounded by many well-intentioned beliefs. Some, however, are not entirely accurate. Let us clarify a few common misconceptions about tea consumption.

Myth 1: Expensive tea is always better

Price reflects many factors - origin, scarcity, labour, and market positioning - not just quality. A high-priced tea may not suit your personal taste. For daily enjoyment, selecting tea that fits your palate and routine is more sensible than chasing high prices.

Myth 2: All teas suit everyone

Different teas have different characters. Green tea is unoxidized and tends to be fresh and light; black tea is fully oxidized and mellow; oolong falls in between. Individual preferences and tolerance vary. Finding the tea that suits you matters more than following trends.

Myth 3: Fresh tea is always the best

Freshness is prized in green and yellow teas. But white, dark, and pu-erh teas often improve with age, developing deeper, smoother flavours. Whether "fresh" is best depends on the tea category.

Myth 4: Tea lasts forever

Not all teas are suitable for long storage. Most teas have a peak drinking window. Over time, they may lose aroma and become flat. Knowing each tea's storage characteristics helps you enjoy it at its best.

Myth 5: The first infusion must be discarded

Rinsing tea originated as a practice to awaken the leaves. For teas produced under hygienic standards, the first infusion contains valuable flavour compounds and is perfectly drinkable. Whether to discard it is a matter of personal habit.