It may come as a surprise that many popular products contain a range of chemicals and additives. Lab tests have reported chemicals found in several common tea brands, including pesticide residues. We have looked into the topic and link below to reports that describe these findings in more depth.
It is understandable to be concerned when you read that some teas were found to contain pesticide residues and other unwanted substances. Here is what the reports say and what you can do about it.
Pesticides
Many herbs and tea leaves go into the drying process without being washed. In other words, non-organic tea can carry pesticide residues. According to the reports, some tea brands, including a few that are marketed as natural, contained pesticide residues in amounts above the allowed US/EU limits.
This article, which refers to a report by Glaucus Research, describes these practices in detail. It is worth reading if you want the full background.
Teabag Material
Some teabags are made of plastics, which could potentially release small particles when soaked in boiling water. Other materials include paper processed with wet-strength agents such as polymerized epichlorohydrin, and corn-based biodegradable materials (possibly GMO).
Epichlorohydrin in its unpolymerized form is an industrial chemical that is considered potentially harmful. Lab tests suggest that tea bags and coffee filters may contain related compounds only in very small quantities (Sadaka Firm).
One way to avoid anything leaching from teabags is to switch to loose-leaf tea. You can still enjoy your favorite tea this way. Take a teapot, add the loose tea, and prepare it the traditional way using a strainer. You can compare the two methods to see if you notice any change in flavor.
Natural Flavors
We all think that natural flavors have a simple natural origin. They can be made from both plant and animal sources, and they may go through different processing methods.
Some people are sensitive to certain flavorings, and the reaction may be related to the source or to the processing. The term “natural flavors” can also cover ingredients you would not expect, such as castoreum, without it being named on the label.
Artificial Flavors
Have you ever thought about why tea requires flavoring? Intensive agricultural methods can leave the final product with little taste. Flavorings are then added so that the tea tastes the way people expect. So make sure to check whether the label says “flavorings” or “flavors”.
Large producers are focused on creating marketable products, increasing profits, and cutting costs. This can mean less focus on quality.
When people start asking for higher-quality foods, producers respond to that demand. It is up to you to decide what to buy. Read the labels, pay attention to the quality of your food, and do your own research.
Please have a look at this chart featuring some teas that came out with their reputations intact.
Via Food Babe | Natural Medicine Box | Herbs Info | The New Daily
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to your doctor about any health concern.