At Westways Vending, we believe that every cup of tea tells a story. For National Tea Day, let’s take a journey through the fascinating history of tea and how it has become a beloved beverage worldwide. Let’s raise our mugs in celebration of one of the world’s favourite drinks.
The Origins of Tea
The story of tea begins in ancient China, around 2737 BCE, when Emperor Shen Nong is said to have discovered the drink by accident. According to legend, a few tea leaves drifted into his pot of boiling water, creating a fragrant and refreshing infusion. The emperor was captivated, and thus, tea was born.
Over time, tea became deeply ingrained in Chinese culture, used for medicinal purposes and later enjoyed as an everyday beverage. During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), tea drinking spread across China, leading to the development of elaborate tea ceremonies and customs.
The Journey of Tea to the West
Tea’s journey beyond China began when Buddhist monks and traders introduced it to Japan in the 9th century, leading to the famous Japanese tea ceremony. By the 16th century, Portuguese and Dutch merchants brought tea to Europe, where it quickly gained popularity, particularly in Britain.
The British love affair with tea truly took hold in the 17th century. Catherine of Braganza, a Portuguese princess who married King Charles II, popularized the practice of tea drinking at the royal court. By the 18th century, tea was a household staple, leading to the rise of tea houses and the birth of the quintessential British tradition of afternoon tea.
Tea and the Modern World
Today, tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world, after water. From classic black teas to herbal infusions and trendy matcha, tea continues to evolve with new flavours and brewing techniques. Innovations in vending technology, like those provided by Westways Vending, ensure that a quality cup of tea is always within reach—whether at work, on the go, or at home.
Every year on the 21st April, tea lovers across the UK celebrate National Tea Day.
Fascinating Facts about Tea
Tea is more than just a drink. It’s a global phenomenon with a rich history and countless intriguing facts:
- Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world, after water.
- Tea contains antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage and support overall health.
- Black tea accounts for 84% of all tea consumed in the UK, with English Breakfast and Earl Grey being popular choices.
- Green tea is famous for its health benefits, including improving brain function and aiding metabolism.
- Tea bags were accidently invented in the early 1900s with a New York merchant sent tea samples in silk pouches, and customers found it convenient to brew the tea directly in the pouch.
- The UK drinks around 100 million cups of tea daily, amounting to approximately 36 billion cups annually.
Celebrate National Tea Day with Westways Vending
As National Tea Day approaches, there’s no better time to celebrate the history and culture of tea. Whether you prefer a traditional English brew or an exotic blend, Westways Vending can help you find the ideal tea vending machine for you workplace to satisfy your tea cravings. So, raise your cup and toast to the timeless journey of tea!
Looking for convenient and high-quality tea vending machines solutions for your workplace? With Westways Vending, you can explore a range of tea and coffee vending solutions, that suit every preference. Our state-of-the-art vending makes it easy to enjoy a warm, comforting beverage whenever you need it.
Interested in upgrading your office beverage options? Contact us today to learn more about our vending solutions! You can speak to our team by calling 0800 195 3170 or via email at sales@westwaysvending.co.uk
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