Hello everyone, I’m Andy, a tea lover.
Sometimes when brewing tea,
you may notice tiny fuzz floating on the surface of the tea,
especially under the reflection of light.
At first glance, it might be worrying: Is it dust or some impurity?
Can this tea still be safely enjoyed?
Today, let’s talk about this common question.
Why Do Fuzz Appear in Tea? Is It an Impurity?
There are two main possible reasons:
1. Tea leaf trichomes (fine hairs)
Many premium teas, especially those made with tender buds or special cultivars, are covered with fine white hairs called trichomes.
These naturally protect the leaf, and during brewing, they detach and float on the tea surface.
This is completely normal and indicates freshness and tenderness of the leaves.
The amount of trichomes can vary depending on:
- Season: Summer teas usually have more.
- Tenderness: Younger buds have more obvious hairs.
- Cultivar: Some cultivars naturally have more, such as Bailu (White Down cultivar).
2. External impurities
During tea processing or brewing, fibers, dust, or tiny particles from packaging may fall into the tea.
These may look like fuzz but are indeed foreign matter.
Is It Safe to Drink Tea with Fuzz?
- If it’s tea trichomes: It’s safe to drink. They are harmless and even a sign of quality.
- If it’s impurities: It’s better not to drink. Filter or replace the tea to ensure safety.
How to Distinguish Tea Trichomes from Impurities?
- Trichomes: Short, fine, translucent, and gently floating without standing out.
- Impurities: Usually longer, uneven in color, or rougher in texture. Easier to notice when filtered.
In short, don’t panic when you see fuzz floating in tea.
Most of the time, they are natural tea hairs and safe to drink.
They are especially common in summer teas, teas made from tender buds, or specific cultivars.
But if you suspect impurities, it’s safer to replace the tea or use a filter.
That’s all for today’s sharing.
Hope this was helpful.
See you next time!
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