What’s trending in tea in 2021

2020 comes to an end – a year that has been different. However, some things that have already become apparent this year will likely continue in 2021: people are getting more aware of what they consume and how it affects their health and wellbeing. Due to these current developments, we have identified some major trends emerging in the tea sector:

Functionality
You are what you eat – or drink! The latest trend in functionality is strongly focused on the idea that what you eat has a direct influence on your body and its functions. That’s why ingredients with additional benefits, such as energy, relaxation or support for digestive health have been on the rise the past few years and the demand for high-quality ingredients is on a constant high. In addition to that, the demand for immune system supporting ingredients is expected to grow. People are seeking for ways to support their body and their wellbeing. That’s why especially in the herbal tea section, consumers are looking for supporting ingredients. Yet, surveys show that taste is the most important factor when developing functional foods and beverages. Plants are perfectly suited to this, as they taste great on the one hand and offer a wide range of functional properties on the other. 

Trendy botanicals

Another trend emerging for 2021 is the use of new, trendy botanicals. In addition to the classic ingredients for herbal tea such as chamomile, lavender or ginger, more and more traditionally used and in western countries less familiar plants are appearing on the market.

Turmeric, typically used as spice in the Asian and Indian cuisine, is becoming increasingly important for drinks and especially tea. It is said to be antioxidative and immune system supporting, as well as good for digestion. In combination with ginger, such tea is popular against colds and stomach aches. Similar to turmeric, holy basil also derives from India and is the most widely used medicinal herb in herbal teas there. Due to its purported stress reducing and health supporting benefits, it is now also on the rise outside India. It is considered as an adaptogene, which are natural plant substances, often herbs, roots or fungi, which are supposed to help the body to adapt to stressful situations. This includes moringa, is called by many a miracle cure the plant is considered a miracle cure for different complaints. Moringa contains many ingredients which the human body needs, such as vitamin A and C, calcium and iron. For hot infusions, it can be used pure or blended with green tea, rooibos, as well as herbs and spices.

Other ingredients which are on the rise in the area of hot infusions are superfoods. Although they are rather well-known in other food & beverage categories, superfoods such as goji or acai berries, were mainly offered as food supplements in powder form. In the meantime, they have also become indispensable for fruit and herbal teas. They are considered beneficial as they are said to have a high nutrient density.

Want to find out more about botanicals and their various application possibilities? Feel free to get in touch with us: sales@martin-bauer.com

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