Smoked Yerba Mate: The Risks

Most of the world's Yerba Mate is processed using a heavily smoked drying system that uses burnt wood to dry the mate leaves. This drying method is known to produce a Yerba Mate that contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), chemicals that have been shown to be carcinogenic if consumed in high concentrations.

Most commercially available yerba mattes are processed using a smoke drying system that requires the burning of wood to dry the leaves. This drying method generates polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), chemicals known to be carcinogenic if consumed in high concentrations.

Our method: 100% air drying

During our initial research in 2017, it was crucial to find a farm that practiced air drying. Although quite rare, we were fortunate to find a farm that not only practices air drying, but also practices sustainable farming methods, and fair trade. We are honored to have been able to work with these farmers for over 5 years now.

Through a process using hot air, the leaves are completely free of PAHs. In fact, PAHs come from the smoke. So you can enjoy our light tasting mate with peace of mind!