Changes in enzyme activities (polyphenol oxidase and phenylalanine ammonia lyase) with type of tea leaf and during black tea manufacture and the effect of enzyme supplementation of dhool on black tea quality

Variation in polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) activities with respect to different cultural and manufacturing processes and their effects on black tea quality were studied. There was a wide variation between enzyme activities of different clones, as well as variation due to seasonal changes and shoot maturity. Field practices such as plucking rounds and pruning had a great impact on enzyme activities. The enzyme activities positively correlated with tastersʹ scores. The extent of change in enzyme activities at different stages of manufacture differed widely. The loss of activity during withering could be restored by rehydration. Residual activity was observed in made tea. Supplementation of enzymes enhanced the black tea quality markedly in terms of cuppage and creaming properties.