Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on September 23, 2016, and has since been updated.
When feeling under the weather, a comforting cup of tea is often the go-to remedy. However, many teas may unknowingly contain harmful microplastics and synthetic pesticides, even those labeled as “organic tea brands.” Fortunately, there are pesticide-free tea options available that prioritize both health and sustainability.
Tea is a beloved worldwide beverage, with Canadians alone consuming approximately 10 billion cups annually. With such high consumption rates, it’s crucial to prioritize pesticide-free tea options. Recent testing by CBC Marketplace revealed that half of the teas sampled contained pesticide residues above the allowable limits in Canada, with some brands containing residues of up to 22 different pesticides.
Pesticide Free Tea Brands? Testing Teas for Pesticides
CBC Marketplace’s findings highlighted concerning levels of pesticide residues in various tea brands, prompting the need for awareness and informed tea choices. In light of these revelations, opting for pesticide-free tea brands is essential to safeguarding health and well-being.
Other Countries Are Banning These Ingredients
Endosulfan and Monocrotophos, two chemicals detected in the tested teas, are currently facing bans in several countries due to their toxic and harmful nature. Endosulfan, known for its high toxicity and endocrine-disrupting properties, poses serious health risks to both humans and animals. Meanwhile, Monocrotophos, a hazardous pesticide banned in the U.S. and other nations, remains a concern for its acute toxicity and environmental impacts.
The top brands of tea that CBC Marketplace had tested
- Uncle Lee’s Legends of China – Green tea and Jasmine green tea
- No Name – Black tea
- King Cole – Orange pekoe
- Signal – Orange pekoe two cups
- Twinings – Earl grey
- Lipton – Pure green tea and Yellow-label black tea
- Red Rose – Orange pekoe
- Tetley – Pure green tea
Pesticide Free Teas
Given the health risks associated with pesticide exposure, selecting pesticide-free tea brands is imperative for avoiding potential health hazards. Several reputable pesticide-free tea brands prioritize consumer health and well-being.
Top 10 Pesticide-Free Tea Brands
- Numi Organic Tea
- Stash Tea
- Tea Leaf Company
- Yogi Tea
- Traditional Medicinals
- Rishi Tea
- Choice Organic Tea
- Zhena’s Gypsy Tea
- Mighty Leaf
- Pukka Tea
For quality pesticide-free tea options, reputable brands like Numi Organic Tea and Stash Tea offer safe and enjoyable choices for tea enthusiasts. Additionally, sourcing organic teas from trusted suppliers such as Mountain Rose Herbs ensures a premium tea-drinking experience.
How to Choose Quality Tea
- Prioritize certified organic tea brands to ensure pesticide-free cultivation practices.
- Consider growing your own herbs for homemade tea blends to control ingredient quality.
- Exercise caution when purchasing tea from regions known for pesticide use, such as China and India.
