Here’s how to make a perfect cup of tea, according to a food scientist.

From the water temperature to the best additives.

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You boil the water, dunk a tea bag, and take a sip.

Each will have a different flavor and caffeine level.

Rooibos, or red bush tea, from South Africa is my favorite herbal tea.

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food scientist and product development manager at Panaceutics

The same goes with tea.

Water quality

Tea is primarily made up of water.

So if youre using low-quality water, that means youll wind up with low-quality tea.

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Because of that, soft water or filtered water is best.

Fresh cold water has more dissolved oxygen, which will improve tea flavor extraction as well.

Water temperature

Contrary to popular belief, the water temperature for tea isnt one-size-fits-all.

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Jackson says different tea types have different ideal steeping temperatures.

For instance, green and white teas will taste bitter if you use water thats too hot.

Heres what she says about each.

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food scientist and product development manager at Panaceutics

Aka very much worth the wait.

Longer steep times will extract more antioxidants, she says.

Not to mention, youll get more caffeine.

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Energy boost, here you come.

Milk

Milk is one of Jacksons go-tos.

Its one of my favorite things to add, she says.

Two cups with coffee and green tea on a beige background.

I usually add a splash of a plant-based option.

Lemon

Lemon adds great flavor toeverythingespecially tea.

A squeeze of lemon can be great in a tea, she says.

But dont add lemon if youre using milk.

It will likely curdle.

Collagen

Collagen is a beneficial addition to any cup of tea, too.

There are even plant-based versions available, likeMoon Juice Collagen Protect($29).

The best tea kettles and infusers

Make your tea-brewing experience easy (and enjoyable!)

All you gotta do is fill it with your loose tea, then rest it over your mug.

The lid also doubles as a coaster for the strainer, allowing you to sip mess-free.

It also has an easy-to-pour gooseneck spout and a teak handle and knob.

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