All About Tea

‘Chai pe charcha’ has, today, become a popular phrase in India. While the general concept of the phrase is: ‘Discussion over a cup of tea’; it also has another connotation: ‘Discussion about tea’. Ashok Malkani examines the second aspect and various facets and characteristics about one of the most popular brews in the world. The different formats of tea, the diversity in the way it is prepared across the globe, the effect it has on one’s health et al. are some of the aspects that the article discusses – or undertakes a charcha on.

- Ashok Malkani

Tea, according to the Tea Association of U.S.A., is the second most popular beverage in the world, after water, The ready-to-drink tea market is, according to a report by Future Market Insights, slated to rise from $ 34.3 billion in 2023 to $ 72.8 billion by 2033.

Hot or cold (iced), tea is ideal for physical and mental health benefits. It is a hydrating beverage with a range of different types and flavours. According to a survey conducted by Tatat Consumer Products tea is growing in popularity accounting for 46% of all hot beverages.

Sagar Kulkarni, Director of Food and Beverage, Sheraton Grand Pune Bund Garden Hotel, states, "Tea holds a special place as one of the most beloved beverages globally. Its diverse flavours, health benefits, cultural significance, and social aspects contribute to its widespread popularity.

He adds, "Tea is popular not only in India but also across the world, with significant consumption in various countries and regions. Here's a brief overview of tea's popularity globally:

China: China is the largest producer and consumer of tea in the world.

India: India is the second-largest producer of tea globally and has a strong domestic consumption culture.

United Kingdom: Tea is an integral part of British culture, with a long history dating back to the 17th century. The UK is one of the world's largest per capita consumers of tea, with traditions like afternoon tea and tea breaks being widely practised.

Turkey: Turkish tea, or çay, is a staple beverage in Turkey and is consumed throughout the day.

Russia: Russia has a strong tea-drinking culture, with black tea being the preferred choice.