Can I let the wet tea leaves sit around after the 1st or 2nd infusion for a later infusion?

by Donna
(NY, NY USA)

I like to drink fresh hot brewed Oolong tea, but can only drink maybe 2 cups in one sitting in the morning. After the first 2 infusions in the morning, I like to have another cup or two in the evening.

Can I let the wet tea leaves that I brewed & decanted in the morning sit around all day for a later infusion?

Should I cover them or put them in the fridge?

What if the leaves dry out in between the morning infusion and evening infusion?

Is there a danger of bacteria growing if I let the wet leaves sit out all day?

Thx so much! Love your products, your website, newsletters and customer service! AAA+++++

Thx,
Donna

Answer:

Donna, thank you for your support too!

Oolong tea is semi-oxidized, so it is less sensitive to atmosphere degradation.

It is fine to let the wet leaves sit around in the same day. It will take several days for bacteria to grow, so same day is okay.

I also sometimes leave green tea for half day or so before drinking. There is some quality loss, but for an everyday tea it is okay.

After all we have to get on with our lives somewhat and fit tea around it.

I hope this helps.

Julian