Here’s a TESDA- and Oud Academia–aligned module on Drying Methods for Agarwood Leaf Tea, focusing on food-grade, non-resin leaves. This covers sun-drying, cabinet dryers, and low-temperature dehydrators, emphasizing quality, hygiene, and regulatory compliance.
Drying Methods for Agarwood Leaf Tea
Food-Grade, Non-Resin Leaves
1. Core Principle
“Reduce moisture, preserve aroma, retain bioactives.”
Drying stabilizes leaves, prevents microbial contamination, and ensures shelf-life and export-ready quality.
2. Drying Method Options
| Method | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun-Drying (Controlled) | Leaves spread on clean trays, exposed to sunlight, with airflow and shade control | Low-cost, energy-free | Dependent on weather, contamination risk | Cover leaves with fine mesh, monitor temperature (~30–35°C), turn leaves for even drying |
| Cabinet Dryer | Heated enclosed chamber with airflow | Consistent drying, scalable, hygienic | Energy cost, capital investment | Maintain temperature 40–50°C, monitor airflow; avoid overheating |
| Low-Temp Dehydrator | Electric dehydrator maintaining low temperature for gentle drying | Best for preserving aroma, color, and bioactives | Slower than cabinet dryer, small batches | Ideal for premium leaf tea; leaves dried to ≤10% moisture |
3. Drying Process Workflow (General)
- Harvest Mature Leaves
- Optional Washing – if leaves are dusty
- Leaf Sorting – remove damaged, insected, or discolored leaves
- Drying Method Selection – based on batch size, quality, and facility
- Drying Execution – monitor temperature, airflow, and moisture loss
- Cooling & Packaging – after drying, cool leaves before airtight storage
- Batch Logging – assign batch codes, harvest date, and drying method
4. Quality & Safety Considerations
- Moisture Target: ≤10% to prevent microbial growth
- Temperature Control: Avoid >50°C to preserve flavonoids, mangiferin, polyphenols
- Airflow & Hygiene: Prevent contamination and mold formation
- Traceability: Batch code must follow leaves from harvest → drying → storage
5. TESDA-Aligned Learning Outcomes
Learners will be able to:
- Identify appropriate drying method for agarwood leaf tea
- Apply sun-drying, cabinet drying, or low-temp dehydration safely
- Monitor temperature, airflow, and leaf moisture
- Maintain hygiene, sanitation, and batch traceability during drying
- Evaluate leaf quality post-drying for aroma, color, and bioactive retention
6. Regulatory & Export Notes
- FDA-PH: Drying must comply with food hygiene and safety
- ASEAN / Codex: Ensure microbial limits, moisture content, and traceability
- Packaging: Airtight, moisture-proof, labeled with batch code and harvest info
7. Training Disclaimer
This module applies exclusively to food-grade agarwood leaves.
Resin and heartwood are non-food plant parts and follow separate processing and regulatory pathways.
✅ Ideal For:
- TESDA CBLM & field training modules
- Oud Academia premium leaf tea drying courses
- Plantation SOPs and export-ready herbal tea protocols
- Integration with traceability, GMP, and sanitation workflows
I can next create:
- A visual infographic showing the three drying methods side-by-side
- A workflow chart with batch coding and quality checks
- Integration into your TESDA package with GMP, allergen, and contaminant modules
Do you want me to make the infographic comparing sun-drying, cabinet dryer, and low-temp dehydrator next?