GABA Tea 120
Makinohara
Bundle Pest.Free

GABA Content

The tea farmer ensures that a high GABA content is achieved through careful selection of the best leaves and his unique processing method.

GABA

GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid), is a natural amino acid and an important non-proteinogenic, endogenous amino acid.

GABA is found in various amounts in certain foods and is also formed in the brain from glutamine. It is found in particularly high amounts in special green tea GABA tea (up to 400mg/100g), tomatoes (up to about 60mg), sprouted rice, certain fermented foods, potatoes (16-60mg), citrus fruits (10-23mg).

Location, Cultivation, Processing

The tea fields are located on the famous Makinohara Plateau (牧之原台地), the largest tea prefecture in Shizuoka. The chalky soil is referred to as "Sekishokudo" (赤色土; red earth), and helps the tea plant grow long roots capable of absorbing los of nutrients.

The anaerobic storage of the harvested tea leaves in nitrogen converts the amino acids glutamine and asparagine into the amino acid GABA. As a result of this process, GABA tea has 50 times more GABA than generic green teas. In the next stage, the tea is specially processed and dried (Kamairi Sassei).

The tea farmer Yoshita Ota is one of the leading, if not the leading, producers of GABA according to quality. He has refined the production process so effectively that the tea develops a particularly enjoyable taste. This method involves only treating the tea with nitrogen once, instead of repeatedly. Generic GABA teas, by contrast, can sometimes develop an unpleasant flavour.

Single Origin

This tea is sourced exclusively from the above-mentioned tea plantation in Makinohara. Purchased directly from the producer.

Organic Certification

Brewing Guide

2 heaped tsp per 200-300ml 70°C water.

For a mild, relaxing tea: steep for 30 seconds
For a strong, stimulating tea: steep for 3 minutes

Packaging

Packaged for us by the farmer in high quality, airtight, resealable standing zipper pouches.

Recommended Teapot

The ideal teapot for GABA tea is a banko kyusu made from violet clay, with a fine ceramic sieve. This type of clay teapot brings out the umami flavour and reduces the bitterness of the tea. Alternatively, a black tokoname kyusu can be used, which is a good all-rounder for preparing green teas.

Recommended Storage

A high-quality tea tin made of cherry bark (solid wood, Kabazaiku Chazutsu) is ideal, alternatively a cheaper, internally coated, air-tight tea tin.