Green Tea VS Black Tea: Main Differences

Green tea and black tea are the most common and widespread tea varieties in the world. Green tea is a term for the loose-leaf tea originated from the leaves of Camellia sinensis plant. Black tea is produced using the leaves of the same plant that is used to produce green tea. So, what are the differences between these two tea types?

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1. Processing method.

Black tea leaves go through full oxidation process after being harvested. It means that they are exposed to the air to dry. It affects the tea aroma, flavor, and color that turns black or dark brown.

Right after being harvested, green tea leaves are heated in order to stop oxidation; it is usually done by steaming or pan-firing. So, tea experiences minimal oxidation and keep its green color and herbaceous taste.

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2. Appearance.

Black teas are brewed up rich and reddish copper-colored. Green teas are usually lighter and more delicate. This tea type can be anywhere from a pale golden color to a rich and mossy green.

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3. Taste.

A shorter oxidation process preserves and enhances flavor profile of green tea and prevents the bitterness that black tea may have. Green tea usually has a lighter and mellower body, and may have nutty or vegetal notes.

Black tea goes through a longer oxidation process that leads to a stronger taste than green tea. It may have notes of fruit, honey, malt, or spice.

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4. Brewing method

To brew black tea, it is recommended using boiling water at a temperature of 100 °C (212 °F). Black tea is steeped for nearly 3-5 minutes, but some varieties may require more or less time.

Green tea should be brewed at lower water temperature, about 60-80 °C (140-175 °F). If the water you use is too hot, tea leaves may burn and tea itself will be bitter. Green tea is usually steeped for a shorter time than black tea, nearly for 1-2 minutes.

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5. Caffeine content

Black tea is high in caffeine (45-50 mg per cup) and contains around half as much caffeine as a cup of coffee.

Green tea contains less caffeine (25-35 mg per cup) than a cup of black tea due to the shorter processing time.

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