Changes in pigments and phenolics and their relationship with black tea quality

Abstract The pigmentation pattern of tea leaf shoots grown under a canopy and without shade were analysed in order to investigate the effects of some cultural practices on North East Indian made tea quality. The chlorophyll, carotenoid and anthocyanin contents of tea shoots grown in the shade of trees were significantly higher than those from unshaded plots. On the other hand, the lower accumulation of catechins and/or higher pigment contents in shaded plants makes tea less astringent and with better colour and appearance. Furthermore, all the pigment contents, except chlorophyll, were found to be higher in pruned tea leaf than unpruned tea, thus enhancing the quality of made tea.