Page 37 - MENU Magazine - March/April 2018

TEA
TEA CONSUMPTION IS ON THE RISE, ARE YOU LEAVING MONEY ON THE TABLE?
VERSATILE
HEALTHY
A MENU SUPERSTAR
BY STACEY NEWMAN
In a recent survey conducted by Nielsen
for the Tea and Herbal Association of Cana- da, ndings showed that positive attitudes towards tea remain strong, with “relaxing” leading the list for positive health associations for consumers (Nielsen 2017).
THERE IS A TEA FOR EVERYONE
AND A TIME FOR EVERY TEA
We are living in a time driven by individuality and customization, and the tea world is no di erent. “Tea is a very versatile drink. Each variety—black, green, oolong, herbal—has a unique taste, so Canadians can try di erent avours, nding the ones they like best,” says Louise Roberge, President of the Tea and Herbal
Association of Canada. There's a tea for every palate and a time for every tea, with research showing that Canadians predominantly drink black and green from early to mid-day and turn- ing to herbal and deca einated in the evening.
WHY DOES TEA UNITE US AS CANADIANS?
Our multicultural society also plays a large part in the popularity of tea in Canada, as Canadians of all backgrounds are united in their love of tea. English, Chinese, Indian, Japanese and African tea traditions have all become part of our multicultural milieu. As we continue to welcome new Canadians in increasing numbers, the in uence of tea cul- ture and tea traditions in our society will only continue to grow and unite us.
A CUP A DAY HELPS KEEP THE DOCTOR AWAY
A single cup of tea is steeped in health bene ts that can help refresh and revitalize all Cana- dians. Drinking a cup of hot tea every day can lower blood pressure, decrease cholesterol levels and aid in overall heart health. The secret to tea’s health bene ts is avonoids—dietary compounds found naturally in plants that pro- tect the body through antioxidant activity.
“While most Canadians have heard of the health bene ts of green tea, it’s important to know that all varieties of tea are good for your overall health,” says Roberge. “Black, green, white and oolong tea are all equally bene cial since they come from the same plant. Just like
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