Bigelow Green Tea is decaffeinated using a natural water process that maintains flavor while removing caffeine without chemical solvents.
Bigelow Green Tea is decaffeinated using a natural CO2 process that preserves flavor while removing caffeine. This method is preferred by tea connoisseurs because it maintains the tea’s antioxidants and delicate taste profile. Unlike chemical decaffeination processes, CO2 extraction leaves no residue and is considered the gold standard for premium teas.
The CO2 Decaffeination Process Explained
Bigelow uses supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) to gently remove caffeine from green tea leaves. Here’s how it works:
- Tea leaves are moistened with water to open their pores
- CO2 is pressurized until it becomes supercritical (between gas and liquid)
- This CO2 flows through the tea leaves, bonding with caffeine molecules
- The caffeine-laden CO2 is filtered through activated charcoal
- Clean CO2 is recycled back into the system
This method removes about 97% of caffeine while preserving beneficial polyphenols and antioxidants that give green tea its health properties.
Why CO2 Decaffeination Is Superior
Compared to other methods, CO2 decaffeination offers distinct advantages:
| Method | Caffeine Removal | Flavor Preservation | Chemical Residue |
|---|---|---|---|
| CO2 Process | 97% | Excellent | None |
| Ethyl Acetate | 94% | Good | Trace amounts |
| Methylene Chloride | 96% | Fair | Trace amounts |
| Water Process | 92% | Poor | None |
Bigelow’s Commitment to Quality
Bigelow takes extra steps to ensure their decaffeinated green tea maintains premium quality:
- Uses only high-altitude grown tea leaves
- Hand-selects leaves at peak freshness
- Individually foil-wraps each tea bag to preserve flavor
- Guarantees freshness for three years from production
The company’s attention to detail in processing helps maintain the tea’s delicate flavor profile even after decaffeination.
How to Brew Decaffeinated Green Tea
For optimal flavor from Bigelow’s decaf green tea:
- Use fresh, cold water (filtered if possible)
- Heat to 175-185°F (just below boiling)
- Steep for 3-4 minutes
- Remove tea bag promptly to prevent bitterness
According to Bigelow’s brewing guidelines, this method extracts the perfect balance of flavor without releasing excessive tannins.
Health Benefits of Decaffeinated Green Tea
Even without caffeine, Bigelow’s decaf green tea offers numerous health benefits:
- Rich in EGCG antioxidants that support cellular health
- Contains L-theanine for relaxation without drowsiness
- Provides polyphenols that may support heart health
- Low in calories (nearly zero when unsweetened)
Studies show the decaffeination process preserves most of these beneficial compounds, making it an excellent choice for evening consumption or for those sensitive to caffeine.
