The North Eastern Tea Association (NETA) and the Indian Tea Association (ITA) have expressed enthusiasm over the U.S. FDA’s recognition of tea from Camellia sinensis as a healthy beverage. This acknowledgment is described as a “landmark decision,” as it validates long-standing claims about the numerous health benefits associated with tea.
On December 19, the FDA implemented a significant update to its “healthy” nutrient content claim. This update aims to assist consumers in identifying foods and beverages that align with modern dietary recommendations. With this revision, tea made from Camellia sinensis qualifies for the “healthy” label, offering an opportunity to bolster tea’s marketability as a wellness-oriented product.
This development represents a pivotal moment for the global tea industry, underlining tea’s potential as a health-promoting beverage while providing regulatory clarity to ensure consumer trust.