Spilling the tea on tea.

When you think of a warm, soothing cup of tea, you probably picture something pure and natural. But did you know that many big-brand teas contain hidden chemicals, artificial additives, and even pesticide residues? The term "natural flavors" on an ingredient list isn’t as wholesome as it sounds, and mass-produced teas often go through processes that strip them of their original purity. If you want to ensure that your tea is as clean, ethical, and beneficial as possible, here’s what to look for—and what to avoid. 

1. Beware of "Natural Flavors"

Many mainstream tea brands add "natural flavors" to their blends. While this term sounds harmless, it can refer to lab-created compounds derived from questionable sources. Instead of drinking an infusion of real herbs, fruits, and botanicals, you could be consuming chemically altered extracts designed to mimic nature. What to do: Look for teas that list real, whole ingredients like “organic peppermint” or “dried orange peel” rather than vague terms like “natural citrus flavor.”

2. Say No to Pesticides and Chemicals

Mass-market tea plantations often use pesticides and chemical fertilizers to boost production, but these residues don’t always wash away. Because tea is rarely rinsed before drying, any chemicals used during farming can end up in your cup.  (psst...coniferous concoctions wil harvests it's pine needles from deep within the abundant forests of Northern Ontario, Canada, wild and organic.) What to do: Choose organic teas whenever possible. Look for certifications like USDA Organic, but also consider small-batch tea makers who follow organic practices even if they aren’t certified. 

3. Skip the Bleached Tea Bags

Many commercial tea bags are treated with chlorine bleach or contain plastic-based materials that release microplastics into your tea. These plastics don’t break down in the environment and may pose health risks when consumed. What to do: Opt for loose-leaf tea or brands that use unbleached, biodegradable tea bags. (psst...coniferous concoctions uses wood pulse, unbleach tea bags so you can count on bleach free tea from us)

4. Support Small, Ethical Tea Businesses

Big tea corporations prioritize profit and mass production, often at the expense of quality, fair wages, and sustainability. Small businesses, on the other hand, are more likely to use ethically sourced, high-quality ingredients and focus on traditional, sustainable harvesting methods. (psst...coniferous concoctions responibily and respectfully harvests our forest concoctions with love.) 

What to do: Support artisan tea makers who are transparent about their sourcing, use whole ingredients, and prioritize sustainability. Buying from small businesses means you’re getting fresher, more carefully crafted tea while also supporting ethical and eco-conscious practices. 

5. Trust Your Senses

Real, high-quality tea should look, smell, and taste fresh. Artificially flavored teas often have an overpowering or synthetic aroma, while truly natural blends have a subtle, complex fragrance. (psst....did you know that pine needle tea is taste simular to green tea, a light mild tea with soft grassy notes and a hint of citrus. It's fresh and light.)

What to do: When possible, buy from brands that let you see or smell the tea before purchasing. If ordering online, read ingredient lists carefully and look for brands that emphasize transparency. 

Final Thoughts

Choosing clean, ethical tea is about more than just taste—it’s about what you put into your body, how it’s grown, and who you’re supporting. By being mindful of what’s in your cup, you not only benefit your own health but also contribute to a more sustainable, ethical tea industry. Next time you brew a cup, ask yourself: Is my tea truly natural, or just marketed that way? 

✨ What are your favorite small-batch tea brands? Let us know in the comments! 🍵