{
  "version": "1.0",
  "type": "ingredient-guide",
  "slug": "black-tea",
  "canonical_url": "https://leafandlarder.com/black-tea.html",
  "name": "Black Tea",
  "category": "tea",
  "botanical_name": "Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze",
  "plant_part": "tender leaf shoots",
  "forms": [
    "loose leaf",
    "bagged leaf"
  ],
  "flavor_profile": [
    "brisk",
    "malty",
    "woody",
    "fruity"
  ],
  "last_reviewed": "2026-08-15",
  "sources": [
    {
      "title": "Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Camellia sinensis",
      "url": "https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn%3Alsid%3Aipni.org%3Anames%3A828548-1"
    },
    {
      "title": "FAO/WHO Codex material on tea commodity groupings",
      "url": "https://www.fao.org/fao-who-codexalimentarius/sh-proxy/zh/?lnk=1&url=https%253A%252F%252Fworkspace.fao.org%252Fsites%252Fcodex%252FMeetings%252FCX-718-52%252FWDs%252Fpr52_08e.pdf"
    }
  ],
  "decision_notes": {
    "category": "Black tea is a processing category from the tea plant, not a separate plant species.",
    "format": "Choose loose leaf when leaf visibility and spacious infusion matter; choose bagged tea for convenience."
  },
  "uses": [
    "hot tea",
    "iced tea",
    "milk tea",
    "tea blends",
    "cooking liquids"
  ],
  "storage": "Keep tightly closed, cool, dry, and away from strong aromas.",
  "faqs": [
    {
      "question": "Is black tea made from a different plant than green tea?",
      "answer": "No. Both are made from Camellia sinensis; processing creates different tea categories."
    },
    {
      "question": "What should I look for when choosing a black tea?",
      "answer": "Look for the stated style, origin, leaf format, and flavor notes rather than assuming all black tea tastes alike."
    }
  ],
  "commerce": {
    "status": "not_for_sale",
    "disclosure": "Editorial information, not a product offer or health advice."
  }
}