In India, tea is not just a drink, but a ritual of life. From black tea to the famous adrak wali chai, Indians love tea in all shapes and colors. So, if you are a tea lover, there is good news for you. According to recent news, the US nutrition and drug administration (FDA) recognized tea from Camellia sinensis as a healthy drink. Scroll down to read the details.
The Northeast Tea Association (NETA) and the Indian Tea Association (ITA) welcomed the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognition of Camellia sinensis tea as a healthy beverage. This important decision confirms the claims of the global tea industry about the many health benefits of the drink. The FDA recently reportedly announced a final rule that updates the “healthy” nutrient content claim to help consumers identify foods that meet dietary guidelines. As part of this update, tea made from Camellia sinensis is now eligible for the “healthy” label.
What is Camellia sinensis?
It is the tea plant from which all varieties of real tea are made, including green tea, black tea, white tea, oolong tea, and yellow tea. The differences in these types of tea are primarily due to the way the leaves are processed after they are picked.
What does the US FDA say?
In a statement released by NETA, the FDA acknowledged preliminary findings linking Camellia sinensis to potential health benefits, such as its link to certain cancers. However, the agency clarified that the “healthy” claim does not apply to herbal teas made from other plants, including chamomile, peppermint, ginger, lavender, hibiscus, butterfly flower or masala tea.
The Indian Tea Association (ITA), the country’s oldest tea producers’ body, hailed the FDA’s decision as a landmark for the industry.
“The Indian Tea Association is pleased that the FDA has officially recognized tea as a ‘healthy’ beverage under its updated criteria. It allows manufacturers to voluntarily label tea products with a ‘healthy’ claim, provided they meet the prescribed standards,” the ITA said.
Benefits of Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis leaves contain various bioactive compounds, such as caffeine, polyphenols (such as catechins), and theanine, which are thought to contribute to the health benefits associated with tea consumption, such as antioxidants and possible improvements in heart health. These leaves are rich in antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals in the body that can damage cells and contribute to aging and disease. Drinking tea, especially green and black tea, has been linked to improved heart health. Research shows that the antioxidants in tea can help lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and improve blood vessel function. For example, the catechins in green tea can lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing levels of good cholesterol (HDL), which promotes overall heart health. Green tea, in particular, is often associated with fat burning and weight loss. The combination of these compounds can increase calorie burning, especially when combined with regular physical activity.
According to reports, the association also highlighted an FDA summary that noted that beverages such as water, tea and coffee with less than five calories per standard amount consumed (RACC) per labeled serving automatically qualify for the “healthy” label. .
What do you think about this move on tea in the context of India? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
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