As the weather gets colder there’s nothing better than curling up with a cup of tea – especially if they provide a plethora of health benefits.
During the pandemic, consumer interest spiked around food and drink brands that strengthen immunities – leading to a demand for functional drinks, a sector that is estimated to reach $265.9bn by 2030. As consumers continue to maintain an everyday level of wellness, the tea industry has responded with their own functional blends – from mushroom tea that reduces stress, to matcha tea that boosts brain function. With this in mind, we look at five businesses to have on your radar for the in-coming winter months.
Dirtea was founded by brothers, Simon and Andrew Salter who were looking for a solution to give them more energy, reduce stress and help them sleep after feeling burnt out at work. In 2016, they were introduced to the healing powers of mushroom tea that made them feel energised, focused, and clear-minded and they haven’t looked back since.
Their mushroom powders are sustainably sourced from a family farm based in the heart of Fujian in China who have been producing them for over six generations. Options range from Cordyceps mushrooms for performance and endurance, to Chaga mushrooms for defence, energy and healthy skin.
Clipper was founded in 1984 and ten years later it was the first tea company in the UK to receive the Fairtrade Mark. Not only this, in 2018 they were the first tea company in the world to switch to plant-based, biodegradable and unbleached tea bags.
They have recently launched a Super Greens range to add to their collection. These include a defending infusion of blackcurrant and rosehip, and a reviving infusion of guarana and orange. Thanks to both teas also having superfood Acerola in the mix, it means they contain at least 15% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.
Rheal Superfoods was founded by university friends Charlotte and Sean in their pursuit of making the power of superfoods accessible to everyone. Their blends aim to give you all the nutrients you need, whether that’s for boosting your immune health to helping with fitness. In 2021, they appeared on Dragon’s Den and impressed all five dragons who offered to invest.
Their Magic Matcha Tea blend contains 1g of Japanese Matcha per serving, 500mg of Lion’s Mane Mushroom and Ashwagandha Root & Ginger. These ingredients help you stay focused, are naturally energising and help the body minimize the negative effects of stress. They also plant a tree for every order with their charity partner, Ecologi, resulting in over 80,000 trees being planted across the world.
Matcha & Co was founded in 2017 by Victor Abrines and Pepe Cabestany, with a mission in mind to provide high quality and organic products.
Their ceremonial grade matcha (the highest quality you can get) is from Uji, Japan. As well as Matcha teas they have other products such as Rooibos Tea which contains antioxidants that help protect cells from free radical damage and contributes to improving digestion and weight loss.
Erbology was founded by siblings Irina and Victor Turcan, who have a love for whole-foods and healthy living. With a passion for plant-based nutrition they work closely with independent farmers, ensuring all products are organically grown and free from chemicals and additives.
They offer a variety of different products, from snacks and pantry essentials to oils and powders. Their powders include Matcha Tea and Organic Milk Thistle which is great for liver support and regeneration.
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