Tea bags

Tea bags

Type	Beverage tool
Inventor	Thomas Sullivan
Inception	Early 20th century
Manufacturer	Various

A tea bag is a small, porous, sealed bag or packet containing dried plant material, which is immersed in boiling water to make a tea or an herbal tea. Tea bags are commonly made of filter paper, silk or plastic. The bag holds the tea leaves while the tea is brewed, making it easier to dispose of the leaves, and performs the same function as a tea infuser. Some tea bags have an attached piece of string with a paper label at the top that assists in removing the bag while also displaying the brand or variety of tea.

History

The tea bag was first introduced in the early 20th century by Thomas Sullivan, a tea and coffee merchant from New York. Sullivan began shipping samples of tea to his customers in small silk bags. Customers, assuming that the bags were meant to be used in the same manner as metal tea infusers, placed them directly into teapots. Sullivan then developed tea bags made of gauze, and later paper, which became popular.

Types of Tea Bags

Tea bags can be classified by their shape, size, and type of material. Common shapes include rectangular, circular, and pyramid. Each shape allows for different rates of water flow through the bag and thus affects the steeping process.

Materials

• Paper: The most common material, usually a blend of wood and vegetable fibers.
• Silk: Often used for high-end brands, silk allows for a finer filter.
• Plastic: Some newer tea bags are made from plastic such as nylon or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). These can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of tea bags is a topic of concern, especially regarding non-biodegradable materials like plastic. Many companies are moving towards fully biodegradable and compostable options.

Brewing

To brew tea using a tea bag, the bag is placed in a cup or pot and hot water is poured over it. The brewing time varies depending on the type of tea and personal taste preferences. After brewing, the tea bag can be removed to prevent over-steeping.

Cultural Significance

Tea bags have become a staple in many cultures due to their convenience and ease of use. They are particularly popular in countries where tea is not traditionally a central part of the culture, as they simplify the tea-making process.

See Also

• Tea
• Herbal tea
• Tea infuser
• History of tea