Many Tea enthusiasts have noticed a layer of white substance on their Pu'er tea when they open it. Some even find parts of the tea that appear moldy after breaking it open. Their first reaction might be to question how this could happen.

To address these concerns, let's explore what exactly this white substance is and whether the tea has truly molded.

Difference between White Frost and Mold

Normal “White Frost”

Under normal storage conditions, Pu'er tea typically has a thin, evenly distributed layer of “white substance” both on its surface and inside. This white substance should be uniformly sized and not clumped together. It should also lack any moldy odor or unpleasant smell. Such Pu'er tea, often aged, is safe to drink. In fact, this “white frost” can enhance the tea's flavor and value.

Mold in Pu'er Tea

If improperly stored or exposed to high humidity, Pu'er tea may develop mold, characterized by unevenly distributed “white spots” that form clusters of varying sizes. These spots emit a strong moldy smell, which is irritating and uncomfortable. Pu'er tea in this condition should not be consumed, as it may cause discomfort at best and poisoning at worst.

Methods to Distinguish Between “White Frost” and “Mold”

How do we differentiate between “white frost” and “mold” in Pu'er tea?

Smell

We can start by smelling the tea. If it is moldy, getting close to it will produce a choking sensation, and the distinct smell of mold will be noticeable. If it is white frost, the tea cake will not have an overpowering or unpleasant odor; instead, it will have a mild aged aroma.

Dissolve

Secondly, take some of the white substance from the tea cake and place it in a clear glass filled with warm water. Genuine “white frost” will dissolve like salt in water, whereas mold will not.

Observe

Looking at the tea cake, one can see that those with “white frost” are dry, with relatively compact strands, and the white substance is evenly sized without clustering. Mold, on the other hand, forms in damp environments, causing the tea cake to appear moist overall, with a loose shape and non-compact strands.

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