- Introduction to the Green Tea Grading System
The green tea grading system plays a crucial role in assessing quality and determining product value in the international market. Understanding the different grades such as OP (Orange Pekoe), FOP (Flowery Orange Pekoe), and BOP (Broken Orange Pekoe) helps exporters, producers, and consumers recognize the true worth of each type of tea.
- Green Tea Grading Levels
- OP (Orange Pekoe): This grade consists of long, unbroken tea buds. OP typically has a light aroma, a clean aftertaste, and is highly valued for its quality.
- FOP (Flowery Orange Pekoe): A higher grade than OP, FOP includes the youngest tea buds, sometimes mixed with a few flower tips, offering a richer aroma and a more complex flavor profile.
- BOP (Broken Orange Pekoe): The tea leaves are cut into smaller pieces, increasing their surface area when brewed, producing a darker liquor and a stronger flavor. BOP is suitable for tea bag production.
- Dust (D): This is a finely ground form of tea, commonly used in the production of low-cost tea bags or for industrial blending.
- Quality Standards for Green Tea Export
To meet international export standards, green tea must adhere to the following quality criteria:
- Color: High-quality green tea typically exhibits a natural, bright, and uniform green color.
- Flavor: The tea should have a fresh, clean aroma, free from any off-notes or signs of mold.
- Leaf Integrity: Higher grades like OP and FOP require whole, unbroken leaves with minimal dust or fragments.
- Food Safety Index: Compliance with international standards for pesticide residue, heavy metals, and other contaminants, especially for key markets like the EU, USA, and Japan.
- Applications of Different Green Tea Grades
- OP & FOP Tea: Ideal for premium green tea products, loose-leaf teas, and high-end gift sets.
- BOP Tea: Suitable for mass-market tea bags and quick-brew options.
- Dust Tea: Used in the food and beverage industry, often found in instant teas or bottled tea drinks.
- Conclusion
Understanding the green tea grading system not only helps producers enhance product quality but also enables exporters to accurately price their products and penetrate deeper into international markets. Mastering quality standards and the applications of each tea grade is the key to success in the tea industry.
Contact Nam Son today to explore high-quality green tea products and expand your export opportunities in the global market!