2023-05-20 12:07:23
He international tea daythe second most consumed drink in the world after wateris celebrated every May 21 since 2019.
This anniversary recognizes the long history and profound cultural and economic importance of tea throughout the world.in addition to its relevance in rural development, poverty reduction and food security in developing countries
The date to commemorate this day was initially established on December 15, 2005 in New DelhiIndia, in order to generate activities that promote the development of the tea industry and the well-being of its workers.
Since then, this day has been commemorated in some of the large tea-producing countries such as China, Sri Lanka, India or Kenya. However, it was not until June 28, 2019 when the General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed May 21 as international tea dayand asked the FAO (United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization) to lead its celebration.
The day promotes and encourages collective actions aimed at carrying out activities in favor of sustainable tea production and consumption and raises awareness about its importance in the fight against hunger and poverty. United around a cup of tea is the motto of event that will be held on May 19 at 2:00 p.m. and that you can follow online live.
Tea is a drink that comes from the plant camellia sinensis and whose origin is not entirely clear. It is believed to have been cultivated in northeastern India, northern Myanmar, and southwestern China, but the exact place where the plant first grew is unknown.
In China, there is evidence of its consumption for at least 5000 years. Legend has it that the Chinese emperor Shen Nung accidentally discovered tea in the year 2,737 BC while boiling water under a tea tree and some leaves fell into his cup. Struck by the resulting aroma and flavor, the emperor tried the brew and was delighted with its revitalizing properties.
There are approximately 1,500 types of tea around the world. and, after water, it is the second most popular drink in the world. In 2021, 297 billion liters of tea were consumed worldwide and it is expected that by 2025 consumption exceeds 7,400 million.
A variety of tea / Photo: PB He tea is a resilient sector It plays a significant role in the global economy and is of great importance both socially and culturally.
Economically tea production and marketing generate significant economic activity in many tea-growing countries such as China, India, Sri Lanka, Kenya and Turkey, among others. The tea industry too contributes to the generation of employment and rural development where its plants are grown.
Its plantations provide work for thousands of people, both in agriculture and in the production and processing of tea. Small farmers are responsible for producing 60% of the tea consumed in the world. This contributes to improving the living conditions of rural communities, providing income and employment opportunities.
Tea also drives tourism in many tea-producing regions. Tea plantation landscapes are often impressive and attractive to visitors. Many countries offer tea-related tours and experiences, such as plantation tours, tea ceremonies, tastings, and cultural events. This not only promotes tourism, but also helps build awareness and appreciation for tea and its production.
Although international forecasts indicate that the production and consumption of tea will continue to increase in the coming years, since Intergovernmental Group on Tea (GIG) of the FAO have already warned that its production is highly vulnerable to changes in growing conditions. Tea requires very specific agroecological conditions and can therefore only be grown in a limited number of countries, many of which will suffer heavily from the impacts of climate change.
Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns, such as more frequent floods and droughts, are already affecting tea yields, quality and prices. This has direct income consequences and threatens rural livelihoods in these areas. These climate changes are expected to intensify in the future, requiring urgent adaptation measures.
Awareness of the importance of addressing climate change in the tea industry is growing, and efforts are underway to promote more climate-resilient and sustainable practices. These measures are necessary to protect the livelihoods of tea farmers and ensure the continuity of this valuable beverage into the future..
Tea consumption has been associated with various health benefits due to the bioactive compounds present in its leaves. Some of the benefits and properties attributed to it are the following:
- Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants, such as polyphenols and catechins, which help protect the body against damage caused by free radicals and therefore can contribute to the prevention of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, degenerative diseases or cancer.
- Improved cardiovascular health: Several studies suggest that regular consumption of tea, especially green tea, may help reduce the risk of heart disease. Its components can help improve blood vessel function, reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and lower blood pressure.
- brain health: Tea consumption may have protective effects on the brain and help improve cognitive function and memory, which would help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
- anti-inflammatory effects: The compounds present in tea, especially green tea, have shown anti-inflammatory properties, which may be beneficial to prevent diseases such as obesity or type 2 diabetes.
- Improved metabolic health: It has been observed that green tea can increase energy expenditure and improve fat oxidation, which could be useful for weight control and obesity prevention.
Tea has been the subject of various rituals and ceremonies in different cultures throughout history.
They highlight the japanese tea ceremonywhich emphasizes harmony and beauty in the preparation and consumption of the matcha; british tea timea socially enjoyed break with black tea and sides; chinese tea ceremony, As the “gong fu cha”, which focuses on preparation and tasting in small teapots and cups; and el “po cha” tibetanoa spiritual practice with yak butter tea.
Other countries also have their own tea ceremonies and rituals, demonstrating its cultural and social importance in various communities.
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