Brewed Tea

Brewed tea is made by steeping dried tea leaves (from the Camellia sinensis plant) in hot water. It can be served hot or cold and is the base for many beverages. The flavor and color depend on the type of tea leaves used (e.g., black, green, white, oolong).

Brewed tea is primarily used as a beverage base, providing a distinct flavor and color to drinks like iced tea and ready-to-drink tea. Manufacturers may add sweeteners, flavors, or other ingredients to create specific product profiles. It is also sometimes used in food products for its flavor notes.

Brewed tea is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It contains natural compounds like antioxidants, which have been studied for potential health benefits. Regulatory bodies like the WHO/IARC have evaluated tea and its components, with research ongoing into various health effects. Evidence on specific health impacts at typical consumption levels is mixed and subject to ongoing scientific review.