Indian Tea Association welcomes U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s recognition of tea as “healthy” beverage

The Indian Tea Association (ITA), the country’s oldest organisation of tea producers, on Friday welcomed the US Food and Drug Administration’s recognition of tea as a “healthy” beverage, saying this recognition aligns with the growing body of scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of tea.

“The Indian Tea Association is pleased that the US FDA has issued a final rule updating the “healthy” nutrient content claim, which now includes tea as an officially recognised “healthy” beverage. This significant development allows manufacturers to voluntarily label tea products with the “healthy” claim, provided they meet the updated criteria,” ITA said in a statement.

“In the Executive Summary of the FDA’s announcement, it was noted that all water, tea, and coffee with less than 5 calories per Reference Amount Customarily Consumed (RACC) and per labeled serving automatically qualify for the “healthy” claim…This recognition aligns with the growing body of scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of tea, which is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to various health advantages,” the association said.

According to ITA, this recognition is a “pivotal moment” for the tea industry, as it not only validates the nutritional value of tea but also empowers consumers to make informed choices. “This decision underscores the numerous health benefits of tea and reinforces our commitment to promoting tea as a healthful beverage choice,” it said.

The premier tea producers body said as the world increasingly turns to healthier dietary options, the association and its member companies remain dedicated to producing quality tea and promoting the benefits of Indian tea, ensuring that it continues to be a cherished beverage both in India and abroad.