Time for tea

On December 15, grab a mug and pour yourself a cup of tea because it’s time to celebrate International Tea Day.

On this day, tea producing countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia come to celebrate this popular drink. Tea is actually the most popular beverage in the world, apart from water. The main types include herbal, black, jasmine, and oolong. Awareness is also brought to the tea industry and its impact on trade and growers (International Tea Day).

The origins of tea are traced back to China where it was primarily used for its medicinal properties. It is estimated that during the 17th century tea made its way to the United Kingdom (UK). Even though we might assume that the most tea drinkers live in the UK, they’re actually ranked #3 in the world. According to The Atlantic, Turkey is home to the world’s biggest tea drinkers. “Seven pounds per person per year is easily the largest in the world.”

This day is important to union and organization workers who are bringing attention to the conditions tea growers are facing. Many workers deal with low wages, no medical care, and lack of clean water. International Tea Day can help strengthen tea growers associations as well as show the importance tea has an export crop.

So this December 15 get your teapot ready and take a moment to enjoy a cup of tea. You can celebrate by researching more about the history of tea, having a tea party, or just taste testing some new teas.