A simple habit may hide unexpected risks.
When brewing a tea bag, many people wrap the string around a spoon to squeeze it. They often do this automatically, without thinking — some don’t want to waste the good stuff, while others want to prevent the bag from leaking. However, this is not advisable, writes ukr.media.
The bag should be left in a cup with hot water, but not boiling, for 3-4 minutes.
Tea bags should not be steeped for too long, as too many tannins leach into the drink. They spoil the taste of the tea, making it bitter, and, in excess, can negatively affect health. For the same reason, it is not recommended to squeeze the bag into the cup after brewing.
Additionally, if the tea bag contains colorings, flavorings, or other additives, their concentration also increases when squeezed. This is especially relevant for inexpensive tea varieties, where the quality of the raw materials often leaves much to be desired.
How to Brew Tea Properly
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Limit the steeping time. Do not leave the bag in the water for more than 3-5 minutes to avoid excessive release of tannins.
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Do not squeeze the bag. After brewing, it is better to carefully remove it from the cup.
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Choose quality tea. Prefer trusted brands or loose leaf tea without additives.
