Numi Organic Tea

Overview

Numi Organic Tea is a social enterprise based in Oakland, California, producing organic and Fair Trade certified teas and herbal infusions. It offers bagged tea, loose leaf tea, iced tea, and related products including green, black, white, oolong, pu-erh, and herbal varieties. The company emphasizes sustainable packaging with biodegradable filter-paper bags and recyclable boxes made from post-consumer waste.

History

Founded in 1999 by siblings Ahmed Rahim and Reem Hassani in Oakland, California, named after a citrusy dried lime tea from their Iraqi childhood. Became a founding B Corporation in 2007 and largest U.S. purchaser of Fair Trade teas by 2010. Introduced pu-erh teas to the U.S. market and later expanded the line; J.M. Smucker acquired a minority stake.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Blends organic tea leaves and herbs in the United States. Uses biodegradable filter-paper tea bags and recyclable packaging with post-consumer waste and soy-based inks. Sources ingredients from Fair Trade certified gardens internationally.

Notable Products

• Emperor's Pu-erh - Fermented pu-erh tea blend introduced to U.S. market.
• Moroccan Mint - Organic green tea with mint, Fair Trade certified.
• Numi Organic Latte Powders - New line of powdered tea lattes from milled leaves and spices.
• Best Selling Tea Variety Pack - Curated assortment of popular organic tea blends.
• Turmeric Teas - Herbal blends featuring turmeric.

Reputation

Recognized as a B Corporation pioneer and leader in Fair Trade tea sourcing, with over $1 million in premiums to farming communities. Enthusiasts praise its real-ingredient blends without artificial flavors and eco-friendly packaging. Professionals note its social enterprise model and awards, including co-founders' induction into the Specialty Foods Association Hall of Fame in 2019.