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The FDA recently released a final regulation that updates the ‘healthy’ nutrient content claim to make it easier for consumers to find goods that meet dietary guidelines.
Tea is more than a simple drink in India; it’s a lifestyle ritual. Indians love tea in every colour and form, from black tea to the well-known adrak wali chai. Therefore, there is good news for you if you enjoy tea. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has acknowledged Camellia sinensis tea as a nutritious beverage, according to a recent news report.
The Indian Tea Association (ITA) and the North Eastern Tea Association (NETA) have welcomed the FDA’s decision to recognise Camellia sinensis tea as a nutritious beverage. This historic ruling supports the assertions made by the international tea industry about the many health advantages of the beverage.
Camellia Sinensis: What is it?
All authentic tea varietals, including green, black, white, oolong, and yellow teas, are made from this tea plant. The main factor influencing the variations among these tea varieties is the post-harvest processing of the leaves.
According to reports, the FDA recently unveiled a final rule that will update the “healthy” nutrient content claim to make it easier for customers to find goods that meet dietary guidelines. This update includes the addition of Camellia sinensis tea to the list of “healthy” teas.
The FDA acknowledged earlier research that connected Camellia sinensis to certain health advantages, including its association with specific malignancies, in a statement released by NETA. The government did clarify, though, that herbal teas manufactured from other plants, such as hibiscus, chamomile, peppermint, ginger, lavender, butterfly pea flower, or masala tea, are not covered by the “healthy” claim.
The oldest association of tea producers in the country, the Indian Tea Association (ITA), hailed the FDA’s ruling as a significant step forward for the sector. “The Indian Tea Association is pleased that the FDA has officially recognized tea as a ‘healthy’ beverage under its updated criteria. This allows manufacturers to voluntarily label tea products with the ‘healthy’ claim, provided they meet the specified standards,” stated ITA as quoted by NDTV.
Camellia Sinensis: Read Its Benefits
– The bioactive components found in Camellia sinensis leaves, including theanine, caffeine, and polyphenols (like catechins), are thought to be responsible for the health advantages of tea drinking, including potential heart health benefits and antioxidants.
– Antioxidants found in these leaves aid in the body’s defence against free radicals, which can harm cells and aid in the ageing process and development of diseases.
– Drinking tea has been associated with better heart health, particularly green and black tea.
– Tea’s antioxidants may help lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and improve blood vessel function, according to studies.
– For instance, green tea’s catechins may improve heart health by raising HDL and decreasing LDL, both of which are harmful cholesterol.
– Weight loss and fat burning are frequently linked to green tea in particular. When paired with regular exercise, the combination of these chemicals can increase calorie burning.