Green tea is a type of tea made from the leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant that have undergone minimal oxidation during processing. Unlike black or oolong teas, which are partially or fully oxidized, green tea leaves are quickly heated—either through pan-firing or steaming—to prevent oxidation. This process preserves the natural green color of the leaves and maintains their fresh, delicate flavor profile.
Production Process:
- Harvesting: Young tea leaves and buds are carefully picked.
- Withering: Leaves may be laid out briefly to wither, in order to reduce their moisture content.
- Processing: Chinese green teas are typically pan-fired, giving them a toasty flavor, while Japanese green teas are usually steamed, often resulting in a more vegetal taste.
- Rolling/Shaping: Leaves are sometimes rolled into shapes.
- Drying: A final drying process ensures the leaves are shelf-stable and ready for consumption.