Tremella, a popular traditional delicacy, is also a nourishing food known for its benefits of tonifying the spleen to whet the appetite, replenishing qi to clear the intestines, and nourishing yin to moisten the lungs. However, experts advise that when purchasing tremella, consumers must pay close attention to its color, with white or slightly yellow varieties being the best choice. If the tremella is overly white, it may have been treated with chemical agents and should not be purchased.
Good quality tremella features large, loose blossoms, thick flesh, and a color that is white or slightly yellowish. The base should be free of black spots or impurities, and the overall shape should be round, large, and aesthetically pleasing. If the tremella blossoms are yellow, this is generally a result of being dried after absorbing moisture.
If the tremella has a dull yellow color, an incomplete shape, or appears broken, and the base is not clean, this indicates poor quality. Secondly, high-quality tremella should be dry, without any dampness or unusual odors. If it has a spicy taste, it is of inferior quality. Furthermore, damp tremella can become moldy and spoiled; if it has a sour or any other unusual smell, it should not be consumed.
Experts recommend storing tremella in a ventilated, breathable, dry, and cool place. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and keep it separate from foods with strong odors. Additionally, tremella is quite brittle, so it should be handled with care to minimize movement, lifted and put down gently.