With premium Chinese black teas commanding prices over $500/kg, counterfeit operations have flourished. The China Tea Marketing Association estimates 40% of "Keemun" sold online is adulterated.
Most Commonly Faked Teas:
Lapsang Souchong
Fake: Uniformly dark leaves with artificial smoke flavor Real: Variegated leaves with balanced smoke and natural sweetness
Fake: All black leaves lacking golden tips Real: At least 30% golden buds with downy hairs
Aged Pu-erh (disguised as black tea) Fake: Musty odor, uneven fermentation Real: Smooth earthy sweetness, consistent leaf color
The Forensic Tea Test Conduct these simple checks: Water Temperature Test Real Keemun develops rose aroma at exactly 93°C Fakes smell flat or artificially perfumed
Leaf Resurrection Test Authentic whole leaves unfurl completely after brewing Crushed filler leaves remain broken Cold Brew Test Genuine Dian Hong yields floral notes even in cold water Adulterated teas become bitter