In general, 10‑year aged chenpi darkens naturally with time and often appears brown to deep brown, with a smooth color transition and clear texture. If the peel looks unusually black or uneven, check other indicators as well.
Possible Reasons for Abnormal Darkening
- Poor storage: Excess moisture or heat can deepen color and may come with off‑odors or mold.
- Artificial treatment: Some products may be heat‑treated or otherwise processed to darken the surface.
Practical Checks
- Color and sheen: Natural aging tends to look even and gradual.
- Texture: The peel should be dry and crisp, with a fibrous break.
- Aroma: Look for a natural aged citrus aroma; harsh or absent aromas are a warning sign.
- Oil glands: Clear, evenly distributed oil glands are common in well‑kept peel.
Color is only one indicator; combine appearance, texture, and aroma for a more reliable assessment.