Frequently Asked Questions
At The Republic of Tea we use the gentle carbon dioxide (CO₂) method to decaffeinate our teas. This process employs naturally occurring CO₂, the same substance that gives sparkling water its bubbles, to carefully draw out the caffeine while leaving the tea’s precious antioxidants and distinctive character intact.
Unlike harsh chemical solvents, CO₂ is clean, safe, and environmentally friendly. Once the caffeine is removed, the CO₂ simply evaporates, leaving behind nothing but the full-bodied taste and benefits of the tea leaf. The result is a decaffeinated cup that is wonderfully smooth, deeply satisfying, and true to its origin.
By choosing this thoughtful method, we honor both the tea and the planet—ensuring that Citizens of the Republic may enjoy a calming cup any time of day, without compromise.
One of the many benefits of the carbon dioxide (CO₂) method is that it is highly selective. CO₂ naturally seeks out and bonds with small caffeine molecules, while leaving behind the larger, more complex compounds—such as polyphenols and catechins—that provide tea’s healthful antioxidant properties.
This means that the tea retains most of its antioxidant strength, even after decaffeination. While there may be a very slight reduction, the process is far gentler on these beneficial compounds than chemical-based methods. The result is a cup that not only tastes true to its origin but also continues to offer the wellness benefits that our Citizens cherish in their daily rituals.