The purpose of fixation in Pu'er tea. Fixation is a crucial step in the production process of Pu'er tea, serving several significant purposes.

Firstly, the primary purpose of fixation is to halt the fermentation process. During the early stages of Pu'er Tea processing, the leaves undergo a degree of natural fermentation. However, if left unchecked, this fermentation could proceed excessively and compromise the intended quality characteristics of the tea. By applying high heat during fixation, the activity of enzymes within the leaves is effectively destroyed, pressing a “pause” button on the fermentation process. This fixes the quality of the leaves and lays the foundation for developing their unique flavors and characteristics in subsequent steps.

Secondly, it removes grassy odors and develops the tea's aroma. As the tea leaves grow, they often carry a certain grassy scent. During fixation, high temperatures cause low-boiling-point grassy odor compounds to rapidly volatilize and dissipate. At the same time, these conditions facilitate the formation and transformation of new aromatic compounds. After fixation, the tea gradually emits its own distinct aromas, such as aged or floral scents, which are crucial for enhancing the overall quality of the Pu'er tea.

Thirdly, fixation softens the leaves to facilitate further processing. During the fixation process, water within the cells evaporates moderately, making the leaves softer and more pliable. This change makes subsequent processing steps, such as rolling, easier by allowing the leaves to be shaped into desirable forms, like twisted strands, thereby contributing to both the aesthetic appearance and brewing qualities of the Pu'er tea.

Fourthly, the partial destruction of the Leaf structure is significant. The moderate damage caused by fixation facilitates the better release of internal substances during subsequent brewing. These substances include polyphenols, caffeine, amino acids, and others that are essential components contributing to the taste and nutritional value of Pu'er tea. Through the fixation process, these components can be fully expressed in subsequent interactions with water, providing a rich and distinctive sensory experience and Health benefits for tea drinkers.

In summary, fixation in Pu'er tea is a complex and critical process that serves multiple purposes, including halting fermentation, shaping aroma, altering texture, and optimizing the release of internal substances. Precise control and effective implementation of this step are decisive in producing high-quality Pu'er tea with unique flavors. It is an indispensable part of the Pu'er tea-making craft, not only bestowing the tea with its distinctive charm but also preserving and advancing its long-standing Tea culture.