Tea Grades: What Do SFTGFOP-1, FTGFOP, TGBOP, TGFOF & PD Mean?

For many tea lovers, the abbreviations and grades listed on tea packaging can be a source of confusion. These terms, however, offer valuable insight into the quality, size, and flavour profile of the tea. In this article, we will simplify what these grades mean? So, you can make informed decisions when selecting your tea.

Tea leaves are generally categorized by size, which impacts both the brewing or steeping process and the flavour:
1. Pekoe (P): refers to whole leaf teas, which tend to have a more refined and subtle taste.
2. Broken (B): These are smaller, broken pieces of tea leaves that infuse quickly, offering a stronger flavour. Used in commercial-grade tea bags found in grocery stores.
3. Fannings (F): Fine tea particles often found in tea bags, they brew quickly and deliver a robust flavour.
4. Dust (D): The smallest tea particles, used for very strong, brisk teas that brew quickly.

In addition to leaf size, certain terms describe the tea’s quality and character:
1. Special or Souchong (S): Indicates higher quality teas or those with a unique, stout leaf shape.
2. Flowery or Fine: Signifies well-crafted teas with a delicate, complex flavour.
3. Golden (G): This refers to teas that produce a rich, golden-coloured liquor.
4. Orange (O): describes teas that yield a bright, orange-hued liquor.
5. Tippy (T): Denotes a high content of tea tips, the youngest and most tender leaves.
6. Numeral 1: Signifies a superior grade within its category.

Here’s how to combine these terms in some common tea grades:
 SFTGFOP-1: Special Fine Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe 1, a premium grade with a high concentration of tips and excellent quality.
 FTGFOP: The Finest Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe, still a very high-grade tea, is just a step below SFTGFOP-1.
 TGBOP: Tippy Golden Broken Orange Pekoe, a broken leaf tea that provides a strong, flavorful cup.
 TGFOF: Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Fannings, a grade for fannings that brew quickly and offer a robust flavour
 PD: Pekoe dust, the smallest particles, is often used for strong, brisk teas.
 OP, OP-1, OPA : Classified full leaf teas Orange Pekoe plus numerical stands for superior tea with OPA as bold full leaf.

Understanding these tea grades allows you to better appreciate the quality and flavour profile of your selection, ensuring that you choose the perfect tea for your taste.