Table 3.
Comparison between DFSs and FSSAI standards for tea.
| Parameter | DFS | FSSAI | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total ash | <6.5% | 4–8% | Indicates inorganic matter |
| Total ash soluble in boiling water | >60% | >45% | Indicates organic matter |
| Ash soluble in HCl | <0.25% | <1% | Indicates inorganic matter insoluble in HCl |
| Water extract | >38% | >32% | Indicates quantity of tea extract |
| Crude fibre | <10% | <16.5% | Hard substance (matured tea leaves/stem and so on) |
| Caffeine | >3% | – | Stimulant and imparts briskness |
| Tannin | >7.5% | – | Imparts colour and an astringent |
DFS, Defence Food Specification; FSSAI, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.