Tea is much more than just a drink in India—it’s a deep-rooted tradition, a ritual, and an emotional connection shared across generations. From the lively tea stalls of local streets to the serene tea ceremonies in homes, tea has always been a symbol of warmth and togetherness. Now, this beloved beverage has earned a major nod of approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which has recognized tea made from the Camellia sinensis plant as a healthy beverage.
On December 19, the FDA announced a groundbreaking update to its regulations, revising the ‘healthy’ nutritional content claim to help consumers easily identify foods and drinks that comply with dietary recommendations. With this update, tea crafted from Camellia sinensis—the traditional tea plant—is now eligible to proudly wear the “healthy” label.
While this is great news for tea lovers, there’s a catch: The FDA’s new ‘healthy’ claim applies only to traditional tea made from Camellia sinensis, meaning herbal teas (like chamomile, peppermint, and hibiscus) aren’t included in this approval. Still, the recognition of regular tea as a health-conscious choice is a huge win for the global tea community.
The Indian Tea Association (ITA), one of the country’s oldest tea producers, was thrilled by the FDA’s decision. In a statement, the ITA expressed its enthusiasm: “We are pleased that the FDA has officially recognized tea as a ‘healthy’ beverage under its updated criteria. This opens the door for manufacturers to label their tea products with the ‘healthy’ claim, provided they meet the necessary standards.”
The ITA also highlighted tea’s nutritional richness, particularly its high levels of antioxidants, which are known to promote good health. The decision to officially brand tea as a healthy drink will give consumers more confidence when choosing tea as part of their wellness routines.
Peter F. Goggi, President of the Tea Association of the United States, couldn’t contain his excitement, calling the FDA’s update “fantastic news” for the entire tea industry. This approval not only boosts tea’s image but also opens up opportunities for manufacturers to tap into a broader, health-conscious market.
In India, tea industry experts like Bidyananda Borkakoty, a former Vice-Chairman of the Tea Board of India, also celebrated the announcement. “We’re absolutely delighted with the FDA’s recognition of tea as a healthful beverage. The research on tea’s health benefits is compelling worldwide, and we encourage the Indian government to promote tea as a wellness and lifestyle beverage,” he said.
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