Loose tea consists of whole or large cut tea leaves, offering a richer and more nuanced flavor compared to pre packaged tea bags. Common cuts include whole leaves, which provide the highest quality and fullest flavor, ideal for premium teas like Darjeeling and Oolong. Broken leaves are slightly smaller but still offer robust flavor, suitable for blends like English Breakfast. Fannings, which are small broken leaves, are used in many blends for a strong, quick brewing tea, while dust, the finest tea particles, is primarily found in lower grade teas and not typically sold loose. Loose tea is favored for its superior taste and the ability to customize the brewing process, making it a preferred choice for tea enthusiasts seeking a rich and flavorful cup.