Can tea still be drunk when it's damp

Tea leaves can generally be consumed if they have not become moldy after being dampened, but they are prohibited from consumption when mold spots or odors appear. Moisture in tea is mainly related to factors such as high humidity in storage environment and improper sealing. Damp tea may affect flavor and pose health risks.

Wet tea leaves can still be consumed after appropriate treatment without mold growth. Drying tea leaves naturally in a cool and ventilated place, or using low-temperature baking to remove moisture, can restore some of the aroma. Unfermented tea such as green tea is prone to oxidation and deterioration when exposed to moisture, and should be treated as soon as possible; Pu erh tea and other post fermented teas have strong moisture resistance, but it is still necessary to avoid long-term dampness. It is recommended to consume the processed tea leaves in a short period of time to avoid secondary moisture. If white mold spots, green mycelium, or a pungent moldy smell appear on tea leaves after being damp, it indicates the growth of harmful microorganisms such as Aspergillus flavus. Moldy tea leaves can produce carcinogenic substances such as aflatoxins, which cannot be decomposed even when brewed at high temperatures. Eating moldy tea by mistake may cause acute gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, and long-term intake can increase the risk of liver damage. Moldy tea leaves should be discarded immediately and should not be dried before drinking.

It is recommended to use sealed containers such as tin cans and porcelain cans for daily storage of tea, and place them in a dark and dry place. Food grade desiccants can be used to prevent moisture. Different types of tea are packaged and stored separately to avoid cross flavors. Regularly check the status of tea inventory, and store it refrigerated during the rainy season. Before drinking, observe whether the color and aroma of the tea leaves are normal. If the tea soup becomes cloudy or has suspended solids after brewing, stop drinking.