In India, tea is not just a drink but a lifestyle ritual. From black tea to the famous ginger tea, Indians enjoy all kinds of tea. So, if you are a tea lover, there is good news for you. According to the latest news, the US food and drug administration (FDA) recognized Camellia sinensis tea as a health drink. Scroll down to read the details.
The North Eastern Tea Association (NETA) and the Indian Tea Association (ITA) welcomed the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recognition of tea from Camellia sinensis as a health drink. is This landmark decision vindicates the global tea industry’s claims of multiple health benefits of the beverage. It has been reported that recently, the FDA announced a final rule to update “healthy” nutrient claims to help consumers identify foods that meet dietary recommendations. . As part of this update, tea made from Camellia sinensis now qualifies for the “healthy” designation.
What is Camellia sinensis??
It is a tea plant, producing all varieties of true tea, including green tea, black tea, white tea, oolong tea, and yellow tea. The difference between these types of tea is mainly due to how they are processed after the leaves are harvested.What does the US FDA say?
In a statement shared by NETA, the FDA acknowledged preliminary findings linking Camellia sinensis to potential health benefits, such as its association with certain cancers. However, the agency clarified that the “healthy” claim does not extend to herbal teas made from other plants, including chamomile, peppermint, ginger, lavender, hibiscus, butterfly pea flower, or masala tea.
The Indian Tea Association (ITA), the country’s oldest association of tea producers, welcomed the FDA’s decision as a milestone for the industry.
ITA explained
Benefits of Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis leaves contain various bioactive compounds such as caffeine, polyphenols (such as catechins) and theanine, which 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, which damage cells and contribute to aging and disease. Drinking tea, especially green and black tea, has been linked to improved heart health. Studies show that the antioxidants in tea can help lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and improve the function of blood vessels. For example, the catechins in green tea can lower bad cholesterol (LDL) while raising good cholesterol (HDL), thereby promoting overall heart health. Green tea, in particular, is often associated with fat burning and weight loss. A combination of these compounds can increase calorie burn, especially when combined with regular physical activity.
According to reports, the association also highlighted the FDA’s executive summary, which states that beverages such as water, tea, and coffee have less than five calories per Reference Amount Adjusted Consumption (RACC) and per labeled Servings automatically qualify for the “healthy” designation. .
What is your opinion about this initiative regarding tea in the context of India? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
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