Tea Production Techniques

Tea production involves several key steps to transform fresh tea leaves into the final product. First, leaves are plucked from the tea plant. They are then withered to reduce moisture, making them easier to handle. Next, they undergo oxidation or fermentation, where enzymes react to develop flavor and color—this is crucial for black and oolong teas. Afterward, the leaves are heated through firing or drying to halt oxidation and lock in aroma. Finally, the leaves are rolled, sorted, and packed. Variations in each step produce different types of tea, from green to oolong to black.