Rishi Tea distinguishes itself with a strong commitment to organic certification, sustainable sourcing through direct trade, and positive customer reviews. Teavana offers a wide variety and availability but has faced customer service and quality control issues and less emphasis on organic certification.
| Attribute | Teavana | Rishi Tea |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Variety | Extensive selection of loose leaf teas, herbal infusions, and tea blends, featuring categories such as white, black, green, oolong, and pu-erh teas, along with rooibos, herbal, and Yerba Mat infusions. Flavored and scented variations available. | Offers a diverse selection, ranging from classic options like Earl Grey and English Breakfast to unique blends like Hibiscus Berry and Turmeric Ginger. They offer black, green, white, oolong, pu'er, and herbal teas. |
| Organic Certifications | Some organic teas offered, but not all were certified organic. Some teas were USDA Certified Organic. | Certified organic, with 95% of their products carrying organic certification. They were also among the first to obtain organic certification under the USDA's National Organic Program in 2002. |
| Caffeine Level | Varies depending on the type of tea. Black teas generally contain more caffeine than green teas. Herbal teas are typically caffeine-free. Black teas had approximately 40 mg of caffeine per serving. Youthberry white tea contains a low 16-25mg of caffeine per 8oz serving. | Offers a variety of caffeine levels, including caffeinated options like Earl Grey and caffeine-free herbal blends like chamomile and lavender. Turmeric Ginger and Blueberry Hibiscus are also caffeine-free. Sencha Green Tea has a medium caffeine level. |
| Loose Leaf vs. Tea Bags | Offered in loose-leaf, pre-filled tea tins, and tea sachets. | Offers both loose leaf and tea bag options. Their tea bags are made from a plant-based material called polylactic acid (PLA). |
| Sourcing Transparency | Joined the Ethical Tea Partnership (ETP) in 2015, ensuring ethical production and distribution. | A direct trade importer, emphasizing long-standing relationships with growers who cultivate ecologically sustainable gardens. They travel to the most remote regions of the world to source their teas and botanicals. |
| Fair Trade Practices | Sourced tea from farms certified by the Rainforest Alliance or Fairtrade organization. Involved in charity programs in tea-producing areas. | Was one of the first importers of Fair Trade tea into the United States and continues to be a Fair Trade tea importer. They work directly with tea growers, ensuring fair wages and sustainable practices. |
| Packaging Sustainability | Nestl has goals to switch to 100% reusable or recyclable packaging and cut virgin-plastic use. | Uses plant-based, compostable tea bags. They transitioned from tins to lighter, recycled cartons with a re-closable foil pouch. |
| Price per Serving | Generally priced in the mid to high range. | Loose-leaf teas range from $9.99 to $17.99 per SKU. A curated selection of Rishi organic teas is offered for $4.00. |
| Availability (Online & In-Store) | Sold at Starbucks locations, as well as at supermarkets and external retailers where tea is sold. | Available online and in stores. It can be found at retailers like Whole Foods, Mariano's, and Hy-Vee. |
| Customer Reviews & Ratings | Overall consumer score of 3.6 out of 5 stars, based on customer ratings, brand popularity, price competitiveness, and the breadth and quality of features offered. | Generally receives positive customer reviews for its flavor and quality. |
| Specialty Blends | Known for vibrant blends of teas and botanicals. Offered wellness teas designed to support a healthy lifestyle. | Offers specialty blends like Earl Green, Peach Hibiscus Green, and Ruby Oolong. They also have Ayurveda-inspired teas with Tulsi (Holy Basil). |
| Health Benefits Claims | Offers options that support wellness, from increasing energy and immunity to promoting relaxation. Green teas are rich in antioxidants. Herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free and are often used to support relaxation and reduce tension. | Highlights the health benefits of its teas, such as antioxidants, stress relief, digestive aid, and immune support. Turmeric Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. |