Your green tea is green because of a pigment called chlorophyll present in the tea leaves.
The Role of Chlorophyll
- Chlorophyll: This is the same pigment that makes most plants green.
- Presence: According to the reference, tea leaves, like other plants, contain chlorophyll.
Processing Methods
While all tea leaves contain chlorophyll, the processing methods determine the final color of the tea.
| Tea Type | Processing Method | Resulting Color |
|---|---|---|
| Green Tea | Minimal oxidation of the leaves. | Retains green color |
| Black Tea | Leaves undergo full oxidation. | Dark brown/black color |
| White Tea | The least processed tea. | Pale yellow to light brown color |
How Processing Impacts Color
- Green Tea Processing: Green tea undergoes minimal processing. The leaves are heated quickly after harvesting, which prevents oxidation and preserves the green color from chlorophyll. This minimal oxidation is why green tea retains its vibrant green hue.
- Other Teas: Different oxidation levels alter the chlorophyll, leading to different colors. Black tea goes through a full oxidation process, which causes the leaves to turn dark brown or black.
Therefore, your green tea is green because it's processed in a way that preserves the chlorophyll in the tea leaves.
