International Tea Day – Let Us Get the ‘Par-Tea’ Started
As the wise old saying goes, “Tea is not a beverage, it’s a hug in a cup.” And what better way to celebrate this warm and comforting beverage than by observing International Tea Day 2023. Whether you prefer your tea strong and bold or light and delicate, there is no denying the cultural significance and universal appeal of this magical elixir. So, raise our cups, steep our tea, and enjoy the warmth and joy of this favourite beverage!
India runs on Chai (spiced tea)
Tea has a long and fascinating history in India, dating back to the early 19th century. It is believed that the British began to promote tea cultivation in India as an alternative to Chinese tea, which was becoming increasingly expensive and difficult to obtain.
The first thriving tea plantation in India was established by the British in Assam in 1837. This region proved to be an ideal location for growing tea due to its climate and soil conditions. Over the next few decades, tea cultivation spread to other parts of India, including Darjeeling, Nilgiri, and Kangra regions.
India is now the world’s second-largest tea producer, and tea is the most popular beverage in the country, with millions of Indians enjoying a cup of chai every day. The tea industry in India provides employment to millions of people and plays a significant role in the country’s economy.
Tea, a healthier alternative to sugary beverages
Tea is a beverage that offers many potential health benefits. It contains antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage, boost immunity, and may also help reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition, tea’s flavonoids and polyphenols have been shown to improve blood vessel function while lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Tea may also have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the risk of diseases like cancer and diabetes. Finally, the caffeine in tea can provide a mild energy boost and enhance cognitive function.
Common types of tea: green, black, and white
Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages on the planet, and there are numerous varieties to choose from. Green, black, and white tea are the three most common types. Green tea is renowned for its subtle flavour and light color and is made by steaming or pan- firing Camellia sinensis plant leaves. Due to the fermentation process, black tea has a strong, raw flavour and a dark color, making it the most consumed type of tea. White tea, the least processed of the three, has a delicate flavour and light color and is made from the plant’s youngest leaves.
Tea impact on the environment
Every day, around three billion cups of tea are consumed worldwide. This vast consumption requires a lot of cups – ceramic, plastic or metal.
Instead of plastic cups, using a biodegradable teacup is a simple way to positively impact the environment. Traditional disposable cups are often made from non-biodegradable materials that can take decades to break down, contributing to the global waste crisis.
Biodegradable teacups, on the other hand, are made from materials that break down naturally, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills which harms the environment.
Let us raise a cup!
In conclusion, International Tea Day is a reminder of the importance of tea in our lives and the impact of tea production on the environment. By also choosing biodegradable packaging, we can celebrate this special day while also taking steps towards a more sustainable future. By reducing plastic waste and supporting eco-friendly practices, we can help ensure that generations to come can safely consume beverages and food without harming the planet. So, let us raise a cup to International Tea Day and continue to make positive changes towards a greener and healthier world.