Hi Rosanne, I don't have a scientific answer for this, but I would assume as long as the chaga is dry and not moldy or rotten in any way it is good to go!

Hi Pam, personally I think the best way to chop dried chaga would be with a regular knife or high powered blender that has a food processor like option. It should be noted the dry chaga will dull the blades quite quickly though if you grind alot of it.

You could use a dehydrator to dry the chaga sure, but this can quickly become costly unless you are using solar panels. The cheapest method is yo air dry the chaga.

What is the best way to chop it up, can I use a dehydrater to dry it, and why kind of grinder will make it suitable for 1) tea, and 2) smoothies?

Hi Jackie, the black outside crust of the chaga is just as edible as the lighter brown inside. No need to remove it.