Dear fans of Harney in Hong Kong and Macau,
We would like to thank you for all the kind words and support since we launched our online store. It has been almost two months since the coronavirus pandemic and undoubtedly we are all overwhelmed by all the news update, protective gear and food supply, government's ever-changing regulations, work, family, etc. Life is tough, but always remember we are all in this together. Let us all keep close to our heart all the fighters on front lines and all the beautiful people who make sure our life is least affected. As a world citizen, this is the best time to do some self reflection and review what's important to you, what you can do for mother earth to make it a better place for every living organism.
While you are spending most of your time at home, our team (with mask and gloves on, of course.) is in full swing to bring you the best tea to your doorstep so you have less to worry about.
On the other hand, we understand some of you might have questions about the current situation and our teas, that is why we would like to share a message from Mike Harney with you today.
Stay healthy everyone!
Tea Concepts Team
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Message from Mike Harney
My father started Harney & Sons with the goal of being a trusted tea merchant. And we have continued with that tradition. It is our job to make sure that our teas are safe. And they are.
The U.S. Tea Association has recently responded with information specifically referencing the safety of teas imported from other countries. The teas we retail now were produced and shipped last year prior to the beginning of the crisis in China. Additionally, tea is finished in hot ovens and is brewed in hot water that would destroy any microorganism, including a virus. The head of the U.S. Tea Association, Peter Goggi, has stated the risk of the COVID-19 infection per the CDC:
“The virus is not spread through goods but by human to human contact … In general, because of poor survivability of these coronaviruses on surfaces, there is likely a very low risk of spread from products or packaging that are shipped over a period of days or weeks at ambient temperatures. Coronaviruses are generally thought to be spread most often by respiratory droplets.”
These statements are well-supported by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). More information from the FDA may be found here and also from the CDC here.