The Tea Board of India recently issued an advisory to control and prevent the harmful impact of chemically coloured teas that have taken over the Indian market to ensure safe tea consumption. Therefore, it’s critical to choose your tea wisely. When it comes to selecting the right type of tea, there’re multiple options. From classic Masala chai to exotic Oolong tea to aromatic spiced and herbal teas, there's something for everyone.
How can you be certain that the tea you've been drinking contains no harmful chemicals or additives? Here's everything you need to know about it, as well as how to test the purity of tea at home.
Is your tea adulterated?
The Tea Board of India has devised an awareness campaign in response to the influx of adulterated tea, which may be harmful to one's health.
According to the statement, “Tea (finished product/made tea) may contain extraneous colouring material that’s not permitted, known as adulterant tea." There have been reports that inferior tea leaves were used to colour the product with bismark brown, potassium blue, turmeric, indigo, plumbago, and other dyes to impart a desired colour or glossiness.”
Why are additives & colouring agents added?
The simple reason for the use of additives & colouring agents in tea is to treat the leaves, which are frequently damaged during the tea-making process.
According to the Tea Board of India, the tea leaves damaged during the tea-making process are mostly of low quality, and in order to make them sellable, these additives are added to enhance the colour, but they add no nutritional value to the tea.
Tips to check adulteration in tea at Home
According to FSSAI recommendations, the simplest way to test for adulteration in tea is to drink it. Here are some simple steps:
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Place the tea leaves on a piece of filter paper.
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Sprinkle some water on the filter paper to moisten it.
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Rinse the filter paper under running water.
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Now, hold the filter paper up to the light and examine the stains.
Unadulterated tea leaves will not leave a stain on the filter paper, whereas adulterated tea leaves will leave a blackish-brown stain.
Be Aware, Be Careful & Be Safe!!
