Xiao Qing Gan is divided into three types based on different processing methods: mechanical drying, semi-sun-drying, and full sun-drying. The shelf life of mechanically dried Xiao Qing Gan is 12 months, while that of semi-sun-dried Xiao Qing Gan is 36 months (3 years). Fully sun-dried Xiao Qing Gan has a stable and rich quality, becoming more fragrant with age, making it suitable for long-term storage.

Characteristics and Shelf Life of Xiao Qing Gan Under Different Processing Methods

1. Pure Sun-Drying Process

Dried naturally, this method preserves the original characteristics of the Peel and Tea, ensuring the initial properties of aging substances. Through the interaction of sunlight and moisture, the peel undergoes continuous cycles of shrinking, softening, and shrinking again. This process allows for a fundamental integration and, over time, results in genuine pure sun-dried Xiao Qing Gan.

Sun-drying does not involve high temperatures but instead utilizes natural heat, light, and atmospheric conditions, resulting in a gentle and harmonious tea. Its flavor is authentic and lacks any fiery qualities, making it less likely to cause internal heat when consumed.

Pros and Cons: Longer shelf life, greatly influenced by weather, slow process, low yield.

2. Semi-Sun-Drying Process

A combination of sun-drying and low-temperature drying, typically using heat pump air energy temperature control devices to mimic the ground temperature and humidity during sun exposure for drying. This method has become mainstream and efficiently combines the tea and peel, preserving key volatile oil contents in the peel.

The peel and tea have a strong taste and blend perfectly, offering Health benefits. Semi-sun-drying offers the advantages of enhancing aroma, thorough drying, and maintaining activity, resulting in better taste compared to high-temperature drying. The shelf life is generally around 3 years.

3. High-Temperature Drying Process

High-temperature drying is simple, involving the direct placement of the tea-filled fruit in a drying room at temperatures ranging from 80-110°C for about 18 hours. This method is fast, cost-effective, and not affected by weather conditions, making the Xiao Qing Gan ready for immediate consumption.

However, high-temperature drying can result in a slightly harsher taste and easily damage the active molecular structure (volatile oils) on the surface of the peel, reducing its value for aging.

Its shelf life is approximately 18 months.

How Should Xiao Qing Gan Be Stored?

Generally speaking, there are three crucial elements to consider when storing Xiao Qing Gan: preventing dampness, preventing insect infestation, and avoiding odors. As long as these aspects are handled properly, Xiao Qing Gan should be fine and can even become more fragrant over time. Here are specific steps:

1. Sealed Storage:

It doesn't necessarily mean vacuum-sealed, but rather avoiding exposing the tea directly to the air to prevent it from absorbing excessive moisture. Containers made of materials like purple clay, earthenware, iron cans, or glass jars can be used. These materials have a higher density, allowing the citrus scent to penetrate slower than plastic bags, thus preserving the scent within the container. For freshly sun-dried peels, allow them to cool naturally before storing them in bags or containers. For younger peels, options include cardboard boxes, burlap bags, cloth bags, or plastic sacks, while older peels can be stored in glass jars, Ceramic jars, or metal cans.

2. Storage Location:

(1) Avoid areas with high humidity and temperature, such as bathrooms.

(2) Avoid areas with strong odors or cooking fumes, such as kitchens.

(3) Do not store in the refrigerator.

Storing Xiao Qing Gan in the refrigerator is a common mistake that slows down or interrupts the aging process, preventing it from reaching its optimal quality. Additionally, fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause the Xiao Qing Gan to absorb odors from other foods, leading to mixed flavors. Therefore, keeping it in a dry and well-ventilated area is sufficient, just as with aged peels.

Tea has its character, and so does the citrus. When combined well, they represent the authentic quality of Xiao Qing Gan from Xinhui. Proper storage ensures that Xiao Qing Gan can continue to age beyond its shelf life, becoming more fragrant with time.