Process and an apparatus for producing teas

Abstract

A process for producing a flavor-rich tea from tea leaves is disclosed. It comprises the steps of: (a) plucking the tea leaves; (b) withering the tea leaves; (c) rolling the tea leaves; and (d) drying the tea leaves in a drying apparatus in a circulating air at a drying temperature in the range of from about 30.degree. C. to less than about 80.degree. C. while maintaining a relative humidity of the circulating air in the range about 1% to 30%, the drying apparatus comprising a dehumidifying device for dehumidifying air, a temperature-moisture controlling device, and a drying room. The tea made from this process is capable of being subsequently stored at room temperature and substantially retains flavor-producing volatile constituents. Optionally, the tea leaves after step (d) can be baked for a short time to produce a roasted flavor.

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