In 1932, the Tea and Coffee Trade Journal had an article on it.
Here is the section on history:
“A certain amount of mystery surrounds the history of the mold. According to Dinslage and Ludoff, German investigators, it was introduced into Germany in 1911, presumably from Mitau [now known as Jelgava], Courland, Russia, and was cultivated by people who used the fermented liquid obtained as a household remedy for all kinds of ills. In Russia, it was known before 1911, but even in Mitau, where it is said that sailors first taught the inhabitants the use of the mold, its importation is comparatively recent. Where the sailors originally obtained the mold has yet to be discovered. Judging from the names by which it is popularly known — for instance, Japanese, Manchurian, and Indian tea fungus — it probably derives from the Orient. Scientists found that the mold grows best between 25-30°, and consequently inquiries in the tropics were instituted, but so far no positive information has been obtained from these places, which include Java, New Guinea, Samoa, Africa, and Argentina. It is hoped that better success will attend inquiries sent to China and Japan.”
I believe it was also mentioned in William Ukers’ 1935 “All About Tea” enyclopedia by the name of “Tea Cider”… I will see if I can find the reference.
