Grades

GRADES

In Kenya, tea grades are classified based on the size and appearance of the tea leaves. The grading system used in Kenya is unique and specific to the country’s tea industry. Here are some common tea grades found in Kenya:

Whole Leaf Grades:

  • Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe (FBOP): This grade consists of long, wiry leaves with some tips. It represents a high-quality tea with a delicate flavor.
  • Golden Broken Orange Pekoe (GBOP): Similar to FBOP, but with a higher proportion of golden tips, indicating a finer quality tea.
  • Tippy Golden Broken Orange Pekoe (TGBOP): This grade has an increased amount of golden tips, indicating a tea of exceptional quality.
  • Finest Tippy Golden Broken Orange Pekoe (FTGBOP): The highest grade of whole leaf tea, with an abundance of golden tips. It represents the finest quality tea available.

Broken Leaf Grades:

  • Broken Orange Pekoe (BOP): This grade consists of broken tea leaves, which brew a strong and robust cup of tea.
  • Broken Pekoe (BP): Similar to BOP, but with smaller broken leaves. It produces a strong and bold infusion.
  • Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings (BOPF): This grade consists of smaller broken leaf particles, often used in tea bags or for quick brewing.

Dust Grades:

  • Pekoe Dust 1 (PD1): This grade consists of fine tea particles, often used in tea bags or for quick brewing. It produces a strong and bold cup of tea.

Other Grades:

    • Orthodox: This grade refers to whole leaf teas that are processed using traditional methods, including withering, rolling, oxidation, and drying.
    • CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl): This grade refers to teas that are processed using the CTC method, which involves crushing, tearing, and curling the leaves. CTC teas are known for their strong and bold flavor.

It’s important to note that the grading system in Kenya focuses more on the appearance and size of the tea leaves rather than the quality or flavor profile. The grades are determined through a combination of visual assessment and sieving of the tea leaves.

Kenya is renowned for its high-quality teas, and the grading system helps to ensure consistency and transparency in the tea industry. The specific grade of tea can influence its price, market demand, and suitability for different purposes, such as blending, packaging, or specialty teas.

Check out our product section to purchase your preferable grade of tea.