Tea is more than just a drink; it’s a ritual steeped in history and a source of comfort for millions around the world. However, as we sip from our cups, we often take for granted the purity and authenticity of what we’re consuming. The issue of adulteration in loose tea has emerged as a significant concern, threatening to undermine the quality of this beloved beverage. Understanding the risks associated with adulteration and learning how to recognise genuine loose tea is crucial for ensuring an authentic and safe tea experience.

Understanding Adulteration in Tea

Adulteration in tea involves the addition of harmful substances to tea leaves, often with the intent to enhance the tea's appearance with respect to color or flavour. This deceptive practice may include the use of unauthorised colours, flavours, or even other plant materials, which may make the tea seem more appealing to the untrained eye or nose. However, these additives not only undermine the tea’s purity but also pose significant health risks. For instance, synthetic colorants like carmine, brilliant blue, sunset yellow, and tartrasine are sometimes added to damaged or lower-quality tea leaves to improve their appearance. These substances, however, are not permitted and can be harmful when consumed.

The Tea Board of India has been proactive in raising awareness about these adulteration practices. The Board has emphasized the dangers posed by chemically colored teas, which have unfortunately gained a foothold in the Indian market. The use of synthetic dyes in tea is strictly prohibited, as per regulations, yet they continue to be a concern. These adulterants are often used to treat tea leaves that have been damaged during processing, making them appear more marketable, despite their lack of nutritional value.

Why Are Colours added to tea?

The primary reason for the use of additives and coloring agents in tea is to treat leaves that have been damaged during the tea-making process. According to the Tea Board of India, these damaged leaves are of low quality, and to make them marketable, additives are added to enhance their color. However, these additives do not add any nutritional value to the tea and are strictly prohibited due to their potential health risks. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has made it clear that the use of coloring substances in tea is not allowed. The treatment of tea with coloring agents falls under the category of adulterants, and such practices have become a matter of serious concern.

Recognizing Adulterated Tea Through a Simple Cold-Water Test

A simple yet effective test can help reveal the authenticity of loose tea. Place a small amount of tea in a clear glass of water. Genuine tea leaves will gradually unfurl and expand, releasing their natural color slowly as they infuse. If the tea leaves remain unchanged or if the water quickly turns an unnatural color, this could be a sign of added artificial colorants or other additives. A proper infusion should result in clear water with visibly expanding tea leaves that change in texture as they steep.

Loose Tea vs. Packaged Tea

Loose tea, especially when purchased from unverified sources, may pose a greater risk of adulteration. Its bulk sale and lack of detailed labeling make it harder to assess quality and authenticity. In contrast, reputable packaged tea brands typically invest in rigorous quality control measures to ensure their products are genuine. These brands often provide comprehensive information about their sourcing and processing practices, offering consumers greater confidence and transparency in their purchases.

Researching the Source

Ensuring the quality of your tea starts with buying from reputable and trustworthy sources. Brands that are transparent about their sourcing processes and utilize third-party testing are generally more reliable and less likely to offer adulterated products. To avoid questionable teas, investigate the origin of the tea and the credibility of the supplier. Look for certifications and customer reviews that validate the tea's authenticity and quality. Reliable suppliers typically offer detailed information about their sourcing methods and quality control practices, providing you with peace of mind about your purchase.

Making Informed Choices

For tea enthusiasts, understanding the risks of adulteration in loose tea is crucial to preserving the authenticity of their tea experience. By learning to identify the signs of adulteration and distinguishing between loose and packaged tea, consumers can make more informed decisions and support the market for high-quality, genuine tea. Navigating the tea world requires attention to detail and a bit of research. With the right knowledge, you can savor each cup with confidence, knowing that you’re enjoying a beverage that is both authentic and delightful. By staying vigilant and informed, you not only protect your tea-drinking experience but also contribute to the appreciation and demand for high-quality tea.

- Dr. Addu Kiranmayi, Nutritionist, Tata Tea Chakra Gold Gemini