1 - A difference in the production process
While in both cases the tea leaves are harvested at the same time and left to dry, the method differs thereafter. Black tea is left exposed to the open air for longer to undergo natural oxidation. As with other harvested plants, exposure to oxygen causes the leaves to darken. Conversely, green tea is a tea whose oxidation is halted after harvesting. To achieve this, the leaves are exposed to heat—dry heat in China (pan-firing), moist heat in Japan (steaming)—to “fix” them. The goal: to keep their properties intact by inactivating the enzymes responsible for fermentation. It is this difference in the tea-making process that leads to several distinct qualities, detailed below.
2 - A difference in the colour of the liquor
In short, the level of oxidation determines the “colour” of the tea: white tea undergoes only very slight natural oxidation, green tea slightly more, whilst black tea is fully oxidised. This directly affects the tea leaves and the colour of the infusion. Green tea produces a pale yellow to orange brew, whereas black tea yields a darker liquor, ranging from amber and red to deep brown tones.
3 - A difference in taste between green tea and black tea
While there is a wide variety of black and green teas with distinct flavour profiles, black tea is generally less bitter than green tea due to its oxidation. However, it possesses a bolder, richer and maltier flavour than green tea. Green tea’s fresher, more vegetal taste can sometimes evoke notes of earth or freshly cut grass.
4 - A difference in stimulating effect
Due to its production process, black tea has a higher concentration of theine (or caffeine, as it is the exact same molecule) than green tea. If you are looking for a noticeable boost to your energy levels, without the jittery effect of coffee, black tea can provide a welcome pick-me-up. That is why it is especially enjoyed in the morning at breakfast. This is less true for green tea, which contains half as much theine as black tea. Less intense, it is therefore recommended for people sensitive to theine, especially at the end of the day if you want to ensure a good night’s sleep… But the boost effect is not the only health benefit of tea, read on below to find out more!
5 - A difference in health benefits
Differences in production impact the molecular structure of tea. As a result, green tea and black tea do not offer the same health and wellness benefits.
Green tea, whose oxidation is stopped quickly, is one of the teas (along with white tea) with the highest antioxidant content. Its high polyphenol content (also known as catechins) is said to help boost the immune system, fight premature cell ageing and water retention, whilst promoting the elimination of toxins. Indeed, these antioxidants are thought to be behind green tea’s draining and diuretic properties. Furthermore, the presence of L-theanine may help reduce stress, providing a relaxing effect.
Black tea boasts other health benefits. Its high theaflavin content may help tackle diabetes (it regulates blood sugar levels), cholesterol, headaches and anxiety. Also rich in L-theanine, it helps ease anxiety just like green tea.
6 - A difference in shelf life
It is worth noting that black tea can keep, unaltered, for several years, whereas green tea loses its freshness after 12 to 18 months (it remains perfectly drinkable, of course, but less flavourful). This explains why black tea was long the most popular tea in Europe, during the time it took for tea leaves to travel from India, Japan or China…
At Kusmi, most of our green and black teas are organic, sourced from sustainable and responsible agriculture. We can only strongly recommend that you always choose certified organic teas and infusions guaranteed to be pesticide-free and made from plants grown with respect for the environment. Indeed, this label requires numerous quality controls throughout tea cultivation and production. This ensures you enjoy high-quality tea while making the most of its benefits.
And above all, do not forget that green tea and black tea are not the only types of tea! Rooibos, matcha, maté, white tea, caffeine-free tea: there is something for everyone. Find your perfect blend!