Taos Tea: Altitude Air Hiding Copper Risk?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 9, 2026

The aroma of piñon smoke hangs heavy in the crisp Taos air, a scent as familiar as the adobe walls that line the Plaza. But beneath the surface of this idyllic New Mexico town, a hidden danger lurks in a seemingly harmless tradition: brewing Taos Tea. The combination of high altitude, local water sources, and, crucially, the ubiquitous copper kettle, can create a perfect storm for copper contamination. It’s time we address this silent threat head-on.

Copper kettles, prized for their heat conductivity and rustic charm, are leaching copper into your tea. This isn’t just a theoretical risk; it’s a real and present danger, especially in Taos, where the altitude affects water’s boiling point and potentially increases the rate of copper leaching.

Let’s break down why this is happening and, more importantly, what you can do about it.

First, understand the problem. Copper is an essential nutrient, but too much is toxic. Chronic copper exposure can lead to liver damage, neurological problems, and gastrointestinal distress. The EPA sets a limit of 1.3 parts per million (ppm) for copper in drinking water.

Now, consider Taos. The town sits at over 7,000 feet. At this altitude, water boils at a lower temperature, around 200°F (93°C). This seemingly small difference can actually increase the leaching of copper from your kettle. The lower boiling point means the water is in contact with the copper for a longer period, extracting more of the metal.

Furthermore, Taos’s water sources, while generally safe, can vary in pH and mineral content. Acidic water (low pH) is particularly corrosive and will accelerate copper leaching. The specific geology of the Taos area can influence the water’s composition, making it crucial to understand your local water supply.

So, how do you protect yourself and your family? Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Test Your Water: Don’t rely on assumptions. Invest in a home water testing kit specifically designed to detect copper levels. You can find these kits online or at hardware stores in Taos like Blake’s Hardware or even larger retailers like Lowe’s. Look for kits that provide quantitative results, not just a simple “pass/fail” indicator. A good kit will give you a reading in ppm. If your water already has elevated copper levels before brewing, you need to address that issue first with a water filtration system certified to remove copper.
Inspect Your Kettle: Examine your copper kettle closely. Is the interior lined with tin? Tin linings are designed to prevent copper from leaching into the water. However, tin linings can wear down over time, especially with frequent use and aggressive cleaning. If the tin lining is scratched, chipped, or worn away, it’s time to replace the kettle or have it professionally re-tinned. Don’t attempt to re-tin it yourself unless you have experience and proper equipment; improper re-tinning can actually increase the risk of contamination.
The Vinegar Test: A simple test to check for copper leaching is the vinegar test. Fill your kettle with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Boil the solution for 30 minutes. Let it cool, then pour it into a clear glass. If the water has a bluish or greenish tint, it indicates that copper is leaching from the kettle. This test is particularly useful if you suspect the tin lining is compromised.
Consider Alternatives: The safest option is to ditch the copper kettle altogether. Stainless steel kettles are a great alternative. Look for kettles made from food-grade 304 stainless steel. Glass kettles are another excellent choice, as they are completely inert and won’t leach any metals into your water. Electric kettles with temperature control are particularly useful at high altitudes, allowing you to heat the water to the optimal temperature for tea brewing without prolonged boiling.
Brewing Practices: Even with a safe kettle, your brewing practices matter. Never leave water sitting in a copper kettle for extended periods, especially after boiling. The longer the water is in contact with the copper, the more copper will leach into it. Always empty the kettle immediately after use. Avoid using abrasive cleaners on your copper kettle, even if it has a tin lining. Abrasive cleaners can scratch the lining and expose the copper underneath.
Understand Local Water Chemistry: Contact the Taos County Water and Sanitation District. They can provide information about the pH and mineral content of your local water supply. This information will help you assess the risk of copper leaching and choose the appropriate kettle and brewing practices. You can also inquire about any recent water quality reports or advisories.
Chelation Therapy (If Necessary): If you suspect you have been exposed to high levels of copper, consult with a healthcare professional. They may recommend chelation therapy, a medical treatment that removes heavy metals from the body. Do not attempt chelation therapy without medical supervision. It can have serious side effects.

Common mistakes developers make when dealing with similar contamination issues often involve:

Ignoring the Problem: Assuming that because something “looks” safe, it is safe. This is a dangerous assumption, especially when dealing with potential health hazards.
Relying on Anecdotal Evidence: “My grandmother used a copper kettle for years, and she was fine!” This is not a valid argument. Individual susceptibility to copper toxicity varies.
Using Inadequate Testing Methods: Relying on cheap, inaccurate testing kits that provide only a qualitative result.
Failing to Consider Environmental Factors: Ignoring the impact of altitude, water pH, and mineral content on copper leaching.
Overlooking Maintenance: Neglecting to inspect and maintain copper kettles, allowing the tin lining to deteriorate.

Overcoming these challenges requires a proactive and informed approach. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Take the necessary steps to test your water, inspect your kettle, and adopt safe brewing practices.

The tradition of brewing Taos Tea is a cherished part of the local culture. By understanding the risks of copper contamination and taking appropriate precautions, you can continue to enjoy this tradition safely for years to come. It’s about respecting the past while protecting the future, ensuring that the simple pleasure of a cup of tea doesn’t come at the cost of your health.