We are delighted to share an important update at The Tea Smith regarding our USDA Organic certification as a supplier of organic teas.
When we first received this certification last year, it marked a meaningful milestone for our small business—and one we continue to steward with care. The process to obtain and maintain USDA Organic certification is long, detailed, and exacting. Ultimately, the process is right in line with our own ideals and commitment to constantly improve not only what we offer to our customers, but our own operations, and commitment to have a beautiful earth for our children and grandchildren and those of our customers.
We’re all stuck on this big rock traveling around the sun together, so let’s make it a beautiful place where we exchange ideas, experiences, and find common ground to sit and share a lovely cup of tea!
Why Organic Matters to Us
Organic certification is not just a label; it reflects an agricultural philosophy that prioritizes human health, environmental responsibility, and long-term sustainability.
Encouraging Responsible Growing Practices
Most of our teas are already sourced from producers who adhere to European Union agricultural standards, which are widely regarded as more stringent than many global norms. In addition, many of our Japanese teas follow Japan’s exceptionally strict agricultural standards for human consumption.
USDA Organic certification reinforces our ongoing effort to work with gardens that go even further—limiting synthetic pesticides, supporting soil health, and prioritizing responsible land management.
An important note: In some cases, USDA Organic certification is pursued primarily for sales purposes rather than quality. There are teas that carry the certification but fall short in craftsmanship or flavor. At The Tea Smith, certification is never a substitute for discernment; quality remains paramount in every tea we select.
Supporting Biodiversity
Healthy tea gardens depend on healthy ecosystems. Organic practices encourage biodiversity—supporting insects, plants, and microorganisms that create resilient growing environments. These ecosystems are not only better for the land; they ultimately protect the people who work the gardens and those who enjoy the tea they produce.
Taste You Can Discern
Quality farming shows up in the cup. Teas cultivated without harsh chemical intervention tend to express clearer, cleaner flavors. In contrast, certain artificially enhanced or poorly grown teas—such as imitation matchas—can develop sour or unpleasant notes, often linked to pesticide use during cultivation. Simply put: if it tastes wrong, something probably is.
A Thoughtful Approach to Health
While the benefits of organic foods and beverages are well documented, our approach remains grounded and practical. Organic teas reduce unnecessary exposure to chemical residues and support agricultural systems designed for long-term human and environmental well-being.
Our USDA Organic Teas
We are pleased to offer a growing selection of USDA Organic certified teas across many styles and origins.
Organic White Teas
- Lavender Spring White Tea
- Blanc de Blueberry White Tea
- White Peach White Tea
- Colombian White Tea
Organic Green Teas
- Lemon Ninja Green Tea
- Moroccan Mint Green Tea
- Strawberry Smile Green Tea
- Sencha Special Green Tea
- Houjicha Green Tea
- Ganesha Green Tea
- Gunpowder Green Tea
Organic Oolong Tea
- Shangrila Nepali Oolong Tea
Organic Pu-erh Teas
- Organic Pu-erh
- Pu-erh Ginger
Organic Decaffeinated Tea
- Decaf Spicy Apple
Organic Black Teas
- Carmelita Black Tea
- China Breakfast Black Tea
- Blue Mountain Black
- Duchess Grey
- Earl Grey la Crème Black Tea
- Kumari Gold Nepali Black Tea
- Lavender Lady Black Tea
- Special Calcutta Chai Black Tea
Organic Tisanes & Herbal Blends
- Bright Berry Tisane
- Calming Harmony
- Eastern Chamomile
- Enlightened Balance
- Ginger & Sweet Orange
- Healthy Harmony
- Hibiscus
- Honeybush
- Lemon Chiffon
- Mint Chamomile
- Lemon Chamomile
- Mulled Wine Spice
- Orange Blossom Rooibos
- Peppermint Leaves
- Restoring Harmony
- Rooibos (Red & Green)
- Serene Bouquet
- Vanilla Bean Rooibos
A Shared Commitment
Our USDA Organic certification represents one more way we strive to honor our customers’ trust. We will continue to source thoughtfully, taste critically, and choose teas that reflect both excellence and responsibility.
We invite you to celebrate this milestone with us, perhaps by slowing down, pouring a cup, and sharing it with someone you love.
As always, thank you for being part of The Tea Smith community. Shop our Organic Loose Leaf Teas here.
