What’s Next for the Tea Industry?
Tea drinking has occurred for thousands of years, however, the industry continues to evolve and tea flavours are becoming more innovative. Whilst the classic breakfast tea is consistently a firm favourite, the portfolio of tea flavours in the market is vast and there has been a surge in other types of brews.
In line with the health-conscious trend, many individuals are reaching for a green or herbal tea to start their day or a relaxing tea to help them fall swiftly to sleep. Tea is now much more of a health focus than just a hot beverage.
Classic Tea:
The most common classic tea choices are black tea, white tea and green tea. Whilst there are variations of these, they are the most popular and well-known within the tea industry.
- Black Tea is the most popular type of tea across the world. It is made from leaves that have been oxidized, which gives it its strong, malty flavour. Plant-ex has captured this distinct flavour and can offer it as a water-soluble flavour.
- Green Tea is a type of tea that is made from Camellia sinensis leaves that have not undergone the same withering and oxidation process used to make oolong and black teas. Green tea originated in China, but it is growing in popularity in many Western countries.
- White tea is made from the buds and young leaves of the tea plant. White tea is the least processed type of tea, and the least oxidized. This tea has a sweeter and more delicate flavour, it also has a slightly floral aroma.
Luxury Tea:
There has been a surge in the preference for ‘premium’ teas rather than classic tea flavours. These tea flavours have been marketed by coffee and tea shops where the menus offer different types of premium teas.
- Earl Grey tea is blended with bergamot oil, which gives it its characteristic citrus flavour. Plant-Ex has mastered this luxury flavour that many people enjoy daily.
- Chamomile is a fragranced tea with sweet and gentle notes of apple and a floral profile. Chamomile makes a popular tea flavour on its own or paired with other flavours such as ginger, honey and lemon.
- Vanilla flavoured tea can turn a classic tea into a luxurious and delectable drink. The sweetness of the vanilla brings a different flavour element to the usually earthy tea profile. Madagascan Vanilla can be used to declare its provenance which consumers are becoming more interested in.
- Matcha is a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves originating in China. It has a slightly bitter and vegetal flavour which is growing in popularity across the tea industry.
Innovative Tea:
There is ample opportunity within the tea industry to experiment with new and innovative flavour creations and tea infusions. The popular consumer experience of going out to a cafe for a hot beverage such as tea has increased the demand for different types of tea. Plant-Ex has the expertise to recommend innovative and delicious flavours for the application of tea.
Iced Tea is also a popular form of Tea which can often consist of fruity and floral flavours, that may not be as popular in hot tea such as peach or watermelon.
The list below highlights some innovative tea ideas that Plant-Ex can help to achieve:
- Valencian Orange
- Honey Blossom
- Rose and Raspberry
- Cinnamon and Apple
- Kaffir Lime
Want to get started on creating the next best tea? Email sales@plant-ex.com today for expert advice and information on innovative flavours.
