We’re all drinking tea

A survey commissioned by the UKTIA (the UK Tea and Infusions Association) has found that young adults rediscovered their love of tea during lockdown. In between Zoom calls, remote working, online shopping and home schooling, four in 10 of 18 to 34-year olds are now more likely to brew a mug of tea. Overall, 86% of adults are now tea drinkers.

Commenting on the survey, Dr Sharon Hall from the UKTIA, said: “Everyone knows that wonderful feeling of sitting down with a mug of tea, especially when you’ve had a busy day. This is probably why more than half of those responding cited the ‘feelgood’ factor as a reason for upping their intake.

“Younger consumers seem to be more adventurous with their tea choices. Around four in 10 tried new teas during lockdown – including herbal infusions for immunity, teas with added vitamins and different flavours of teas. In contrast, consumers

aged 45 years plus are more likely to stick to family favourites such as regular black tea.”

Dr Hall’s top tips for the perfect cup of tea – always fill the kettle with fresh water each time you make a brew. This is because boiling for too long removes oxygen from the water and affects the taste. Just boiled water should be used for black tea. Green tea needs a slightly cooler temperature to bring out its best flavour, so wait a couple of minutes before you brew.

Brewing time is a matter of taste, but you should allow your tea to brew for up to three minutes. Brewing tea from a bag in a mug? Milk in last is best. That’s to maintain the optimal brewing temperature.