Tea

Tea is a beverage made by steeping dried leaves, buds, or twigs of the Camellia sinensis plant in hot water. It originates from East Asia and is cultivated in many regions worldwide, with major producers including China, India, Kenya, and Sri Lanka. The processing of tea leaves, such as oxidation, determines the type of tea produced, like black, green, or oolong.

Tea leaves are primarily used to make a popular hot or cold beverage. In food manufacturing, tea extracts or powders can be used to impart a tea flavour to products like biscuits, cakes, ice cream, and confectionery. They can also be used for their natural colour or mild astringency.

Tea is not considered a food additive and does not have an E-number. The consumption of tea, particularly green and black tea, has been associated with potential health benefits in some peer-reviewed reviews, often linked to its antioxidant compounds like flavonoids. However, evidence is mixed, and it is not a substitute for medical treatment. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) provide general dietary advice, and the NHS Eatwell Guide recommends a balanced diet.