Changing Gears...

Well I got my sample packaging. But... as much as I like it, I won't be able to use it. I want my packaging to be green... and this is, but it will be to expensive. My idea was to use biodegradable cello bags put inside of these cool compostable corregated pillow packs. Turns out that, though the packaging would be really cool and would definitely attract customers... It will cost around $1.30 per package and of course that cost would have to be folded into my tea price. However, if I go with basic biodegradable kraft paper bag with a window (PLA lined), the cost will only be around 20 cents per package. As much as I'd like to do the cool and unique packaging... I can't justify the cost. Dang it!

Oh well... Back to studying for my food manager test!

Developing Recipes...

I'm so impressed with the quality of the tea stock i got! The China black is so good... as is the Rooibos.... I blended a relaxation tea the day I got the shipment and have tweaked it a bit so far. I'm also working on a Caramel Creme Rooibos! It needs just a little more work and I'll be satisfied with it. I dug my food dehydrator out of the garage to dry some ingresdients... I'm still working on packaging as well.. So stay tuned!

Let the Blending Begin!

I just placed an order from my supplier! It's a small order, for experimenting with blends, but a first order none-the-less! So as soon as the shipment arrives... the blending begins! Since I had to order ingredients by the pound, I'll have many ingredients in stock when I pass my food manager test. Looks like I'll have to solve my eco-friendly packaging issues very soon!

Frustration...

I've made multiple inquiries to a specific biodegradable packaging supplier and have yet to receive a response! Made inquiries at other suppliers this morning... Hopefully I will get a response from them! If not, I guess I'll have to turn to tins. I like the idea, but they are expensive and take up a lot of room. Hmmm... just got an alternate idea... What about heat sealed biodegrable cello bags, inside of opaque boxes made of recycled cardboard? I'll have to check into that!

Time to Study!

I received my food manager study guide! With my class and test 3 weeks away... I'll be working hard studying and taking quizzes and practice tests! I've opened an account with my primary tea supplier and am working on setting up an account for biodegradable packaging. I'm also scoping out the local markets where I'll be selling and I've set up a Twitter account so I can tweet my schedule to my customers. You can find it here.