Tea Granules( BOP) – चाय पाउडर

Tea Granules(Broken Orange Pekoe). BOP is a key term in the tea leaf grading system, primarily used for black teas, particularly those from India (like Assam and Darjeeling), Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Indonesia, and parts of Africa.

Here’s a breakdown of what “BOP” signifies:

• “Broken”: This is the most important part of the term. Unlike “Orange Pekoe (OP)” which denotes whole, unbroken leaves, “Broken Orange Pekoe” means the tea leaves have been broken or cut into smaller pieces during processing. This usually happens after the leaves have been withered, rolled, and oxidized. The breaking can be intentional (e.g., in the Crush, Tear, Curl – CTC – method) or a result of handling during orthodox processing.
• Purpose of Breaking: The breaking of the leaves increases their surface area. This has a direct impact on brewing:
  • Faster Infusion: Smaller leaf particles allow for a quicker release of flavor and color when steeped in hot water.
  • Stronger Liquor: BOP teas generally produce a stronger, more robust, and often more brisk cup of tea compared to whole leaf grades like OP.
  • More Efficient Extraction: This makes them ideal for tea bags or for those who prefer a strong, quick brew.

Characteristics of BOP Tea:

• Appearance: BOP tea leaves are smaller and more fragmented than whole leaf teas. They can vary in size but are typically small, coarse pieces rather than long, intact leaves.
• Flavor Profile: Generally produces a full-bodied, robust, and brisk (lively or sharp) liquor. While they might lack the subtle nuances of whole leaf teas, they deliver a satisfyingly strong and direct tea experience. Depending on the origin, they can have malty, bold, or slightly fruity notes.
• Brewing: Due to their smaller size, BOP teas brew relatively quickly. They are often steeped for 2-4 minutes with hot water (around 95-100°C or 203-212°F) to achieve a strong infusion.
• Common Use: BOP is a very common grade for everyday black teas, especially popular for breakfast blends and teas destined for tea bags, though it’s also sold as loose leaf.

In essence, “BOP” signifies a black tea made from broken leaves, designed for a quicker, stronger, and often more robust infusion, making it a staple in the world of black tea.