As opposite to dust tea that is highly commoditized, whole leaf teas must always be your preference. Know the difference: Whole leaves - Highest grade tea, the whole leaf contains more catechins and antioxidants and can be steeped multiple times. Brokens - Small-sized crushed leaves that are left over after producing whole leaf tea. Fannings - Inferior grade tea is made up of small particles and is often mass-produced. Dust - The lowest grade tea should be discarded as waste but commercially used by tea companies to reduce cost. Contains less natural benefits and is bitter in taste.