Why We Sell Organic Tea Exclusively

At LeafSpa, we had many reasons for choosing to sell organic teas exclusively: the growing popularity of organic products, the connection to Fair Trade policies, and the benefits organic production offers the environment. But the most important reason why we chose to sell organic tea is because of the importance of health issues for our customers.

What Does the Term Certified Organic Mean?

Although the U.S. Department of Agriculture has a 500 page book describing in detail the methods and management of varied organic products and facilities, the general organic tea production guidelines refer to methods of growing and processing that rely on the Earth's natural resources.

It also means synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers have not been used in the soil for at least three years. Pests and weeds are managed using earth-friendly methods such as composting, crop rotation, and interplanting. In this capacity, organic tea farmers work to build natural nutrients in the soil, which help fertilize the plants without the need for synthetic fertilizers. These methods actually improve the soil and environment.

So, as an educated health-conscious consumer, your immediate question should be, is LeafSpa certified organic? Well, of course we are, and, unlike virtually all of our competitors, we post our organic certificate right on our website to make sure that you, our valuable customer, know that you are buying organic products when you shop at LeafSpa. To view our most recent certificate (updated earlier this year), click on the USDA logo:

Why Buy Organic?

When you purchase organic products you can be guaranteed that the product contains no synthetic toxins, meets stringent USDA quality standards, and most often tastes better. In addition, your purchase supports the organic farmers who are working to build healthy soil while increasing the productivity of the land. This benefits not only us, but future generations. It is a paradox to drink tea for the enormous health benefits if it is not organically grown as the toxins from production might outweigh the benefits of the antioxidants in the tea.

How Do I Know If A Product Is Truly Organic?

Both domestic and international third party certifying agencies are used to ensure that tea estates and farmers are using only organic agricultural methods. They verify that only natural fertilizers are used without synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge, bioengineering or ionizing radiation. Once that is verified then the producer is allowed to use the USDA certified label on their items.

In the United States, the US Dept. of Agriculture certifies tea is free of contaminates such as insects, unwanted bacteria, packing materials, and other material. Pesticide, herbicide, and fungicide levels must be at or near zero.

Many food and cosmetic products have recently been labeling their items as “organic” but the Organic Consumers Association warns against taking any company’s word for it. Instead, they suggest avoiding all doubt by looking for the USDA organic seal.

What is Organic Fair Trade?

Fair Trade certification is an international trade model that helps over one million farmers and farm workers in 58 developing countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America. When consumers see the label for Fair Trade Certified products, they can be assured their dollars are going to work for better standards for global workers. Fair Trade Certified™ tea and herbs offer consumers an opportunity to enjoy a quality product that directly benefits the lives of producers and their families in developing countries worldwide. Almost all Fair Trade teas sold in the United States are also certified organic so by purchasing organic Fair Trade items you are helping yourself as well as helping others across the globe. Remember to look for look for the labels for both Fair Trade and USDA Organic to be sure they are authentic.

What Is the Future of Organic Products?

In recent years organic products have gained momentum as more people are opting for healthier choices and food items free from dangerous toxins. Despite often higher prices, more than two-thirds of consumers purchased organic products last year. No longer is organic food seen as a luxury. And why should it? Organic food is grown the natural way—the way it is was meant to be.

To get the most health benefits from tea, your best choice is a USDA certified organic loose leaf tea from a reputable seller. These sellers should also be happy to make their certified status available to consumers either via their website or request.

Here at LeafSpa we are dedicated to bringing only the highest quality, organic, loose leaf teas to our customers. We also do our part to protect and preserve our environment by running a “green” facility and using eco-friendly packaging for our teas, in addition to buying Fair Trade and USDA Organic certified products. Please see our full list of teas and contact us if you have any questions about our products or organic products in general.

We hope you recognize our dedication to environmental and health issues and we are very appreciative of your business. Our dedication in partnership with your purchasing makes our world a healthier place.

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