When it comes to tea, one often hears negative comments. Many people claim, “Today’s tea leaves contain ‘heavy metals’ and exceed ‘pesticide residue limits.’ Drinking tea is like consuming ‘slow-acting poison’.” Such statements can be quite alarming, and the principle of “better safe than sorry” often prevails, discouraging many potential tea drinkers. But is this really the case?
Firstly, concerning the claim that tea leaves contain “heavy metals.”
Do all tea leaves contain “heavy metals”? The use of the word “all” is inaccurate, as we all know that there are very few absolutes in life. So, the existence of some exceptions does not imply a universal rule. While it’s true that there are instances of tea leaves in the market containing heavy metals, it is by no means the case that “all” tea leaves are tainted.
(1) Let’s start by explaining what “heavy metals” are.
In technical terms, metals with a density above 4.5g/cm³ are considered heavy metals.
Now, let’s discuss the sources of heavy metals.
Where do heavy metals come from? In nature, metals are ubiquitous in the air and soil. However, unless they are contaminated by industrial processes, these natural occurrences are generally not harmful. In agriculture, heavy metals often come from fertilizers and pesticides. Tea leaves, like other staple crops such as rice and wheat, require the use of pesticides and fertilizers to thrive.
Today, Chinese regulatory agencies are stringent in their control of agricultural practices. The use of fertilizers and pesticides in tea cultivation is governed by national standards. Therefore, purchasing tea leaves that meet these standards should not pose a problem. However, if you buy tea leaves with dubious origins or lacking proper certifications, the risk of heavy metal contamination may increase.
Secondly, the issue of pesticide residue in tea leaves.
Many people believe that tea leaves often exceed pesticide residue limits. However, tea trees that require pesticide application during cultivation are considered safe if they meet national standards. Just as we approach the pesticide residue issue in our daily consumption of vegetables and fruits, as long as tea leaves adhere to national standards, they are considered safe for consumption. Most tea packaging will display a number beginning with “GB/T,” indicating compliance with national standards. Additionally, most pesticide residues in tea leaves are insoluble in water, so there’s little concern as long as you don’t consume the bottom leaves of the tea.
Lastly, there are exceptions: tea trees that do not require fertilizers or pesticides.
China has many high-altitude mountain regions where tea trees thrive in a natural environment. Due to their high elevation, these areas do not require pesticide application, as pests are less likely to infest tea trees. Furthermore, the environmental conditions, including air quality, humidity, and soil composition, are ideal for tea tree growth. As a result, the need for artificial intervention in terms of fertilizers is minimal. These regions, often located at an average elevation of over 1,000 meters, experience significant temperature variations between day and night. This natural setting is not conducive to pest infestation, and the tea leaves remain healthy without the need for pesticides or chemical fertilizers. These areas are considered tea tree “paradises” due to their suitability for natural tea cultivation. Therefore, tea leaves from these regions are considered natural and free from heavy metal contamination and pesticide residues.
To conclude, not all tea leaves in the market are contaminated with “heavy metals” and exceed “pesticide residue limits.” Two such examples are “Phoenix Mountain Maofeng” and “Lishan Oolong Tea.” These teas are known for their health benefits, lack heavy metal contamination, and do not exceed pesticide residue limits. They are often used by connoisseurs as daily teas, and they are safe and of high quality.
- Phoenix Mountain Maofeng:
Originating from the mountains of Yunlian County in Sichuan, this tea carries a “Geographical Indication” label and is a nationally certified premium product. The high altitudes, averaging over 1,000 meters, and the unique climate of this region make it an ideal environment for tea tree growth. The tea leaves are naturally healthy and free from contamination. Due to the area’s constant mist and ample water supply, no pesticides are required. The soil is naturally acidic, providing a perfect foundation for tea cultivation. As a result, this tea is free from heavy metal contamination and pesticide residues.
Characteristics: Phoenix Mountain Maofeng is a green tea known for its slender, straight, and tightly curled dry leaves with a deep green color. Its appearance is a testament to the artisan’s skill in tea processing. When brewed, the tea exudes a chestnut aroma, awakening the senses and tantalizing the palate. The tea liquor boasts a clear, light green color, allowing the tender tea buds to shine through. Sipping this tea, you’ll experience its refreshing and sweet flavor, with a lingering chestnut aftertaste that delights the palate.
- Lishan Oolong Tea:
Lishan Oolong Tea hails from Lishan in Nantou, Taiwan. Lishan is the highest tea-producing area in Taiwan, with elevations reaching up to 2,600 meters. This high-altitude region is known for its high-mountain tea, and this oolong tea is a prime representative. Oolong tea is prized for its resistance to multiple infusions, and this tea is no exception. However, due to its high quality, it comes at a higher price point and can be purchased according to your budget.
Characteristics: Lishan Oolong Tea exhibits tightly rolled, spherical leaves with a vibrant emerald green color. When steeped, the tea liquor reveals a brilliant, translucent green hue with no impurities. In terms of flavor, it offers a fresh and crisp taste with hints of fruity sweetness. It’s an invigorating, sweet, and refreshing tea with a pleasant aftertaste. Even after 12 steepings, it maintains its flavor, and the tea leaves themselves remain glossy and appealing.
