Green Tea Processing

 

How Green Tea is Processed

 

Green tea is processed and grown in a variety of ways, depending on the type of green tea desired. green tea
As a result of these methods, maximum amounts of polyphenols and antioxidants are retained, giving maximum green tea health benefits. The growing conditions can be broken down into two basic types - those grown in the sun and those grown under the shade. The green tea plants are grown in rows that are pruned to produce shoots in a regular manner, and are generally harvested three times per year. The first flush takes place in late April to early May. The second harvest usually takes place from June through July, and the third picking takes place in late July to early August. Sometimes, there will also be a fourth harvest. It is the first flush in the spring which brings the best quality leaves, with higher prices to match.

Processed green teas, known as "aracha" are stored under low humidity refrigeration in 30 or 60 kg paper bags at 0-5°C (32-41°F). This aracha has yet to be refined at this stage, with a final firing taking place before blending, selection, and packaging takes place. The leaves in this state will be re-fired throughout the year as they are needed, giving the green teas a longer shelf life and better flavor. The first flush tea of May will readily store in this fashion until the next year's harvest. After this re-drying process, each crude tea will be sifted and graded according to size. Finally, each lot will be blended according to the blend order by the tasters and packed for sale.

An overview of the basic processing methods for various green teas

Tea Plant
Cultivation
Shade GrownSun Grown
90%+ Shading for 2 weeks40-50% for 1-2 weeks
Shading
Full Sun

Harvest

Late April to Early May. First harvest is known as "Ichiban-cha" or "Shincha" - The highest quality tea that will be produced in the year.

Fresh LeavesFresh Leaves
Enzyme
Inactivation

SteamingSteaming
Steaming at 95-100°C for 30-45 seconds, longer for "Fukamushi"
Processing
1st DryingDrying1st Drying1st Drying
48 minutes
RollingRollingRolling
24 minutes @ room temperature
2nd Rolling/Drying2nd Rolling/Drying2nd Rolling/Drying
40 minutes
3rd Rolling/Drying3rd Rolling/DryingFinal Rolling/Drying
40 minutes
Final DryingFinal DryingFinal Drying
30 minutes, reduction of moisture content to 5%
Refining
Removal of stems & debris. For matcha, only the inner, fine part of the leaf is used
 Grinding  Roasting
End Product:GyokuroMatchaKabusechaSenchaHojicha

 

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