The wide range of health benefits offered by green tea makes it a unique and most sought-after beverage globally. Research shows that green tea helps in preventing various forms of cancer, managing obesity, reducing cholesterol and more. Thus, the market for green tea has huge scope for growth.
Green tea is a widely known beverage consumed all over the world, especially in many Asian countries. Some records say that the Chinese used it as a medicine for thousands of years. The number of health benefits of green tea that this ancient food offers is incomparable to any other food or drink.
Health Benefits of Green Tea
Consumption of green tea has been associated with the prevention of various forms of cancer, such as stomach, pancreas, breast, prostate, kidney, colon, lung and intestine, among others. The essential ingredients in green tea called polyphenols are flavonoids which comprise catechins, epicatechin (EC), epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin gallate (ECG) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG is a powerful antioxidant that is known to kill and suppress the growth of cancer cells. It has also been found useful in lowering LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels and suppressing the formation of blood clots. Studies also found that catechins present in green tea may help prevent glaucoma and other eye conditions. Green tea catechins significantly help manage obesity by reducing body mass index (BMI) and body fat by enhancing energy expenditure and fat oxidation.
Some recent studies have found that regular consumption of green tea prevents high blood pressure and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Green tea has also been linked to the prevention of fatty liver disease, hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and blood pressure. There is also evidence that EGCG in green tea is capable of improving brain function and preventing degeneration. Studies also suggest that polyphenols in green tea can be used as pharmacological agents for the prevention of solar ultraviolet-induced skin disorders. The tea is also used as a mouthwash due to its antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
Matcha, a powdered type of green tea from Japan, appeared in the market recently and is gaining popularity due to its exotic and distinct flavor and numerous health benefits. Rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substances, this green tea variety has the potential to prevent many illnesses and improve cognitive function. Many compounds in matcha are linked with health enhancement, stress reduction and increasing alertness. Matcha has also been found to reduce glucose and cholesterol levels in the kidneys and the liver, implying that it could help regulate high cholesterol and blood sugar in humans. Studies also found that matcha helps increase attention and memory.
Global Green Tea Market Growth and Trends
Green tea gained huge popularity among consumers due to its countless benefits. This is a major factor driving the growth of the green tea market. In addition, the growing demand for natural, organic and clean label products propels the rising popularity of green tea products globally. Furthermore, more consumers are now capable of spending on high-quality products that help them maintain and improve their health. All these factors contribute to the growth of the market. A report by Allied Market Research states that the global green tea market is likely to achieve a CAGR of 8.04% during the forecast period, 2022-2030.
Covid-19 Impact on the Green Tea Industry
While many industries suffered great losses during the Covid-19 pandemic, the green tea industry benefited from it. This is because consumers increasingly looked for healthy options in beverages such as green tea, matcha tea and black tea due to the high incidence of virus transmission and prevalence of serious symptoms. Thus, the green tea market has been witnessing continuous growth over the years.
Some Recent Updates
Companies in the market constantly innovate and produce newer green tea varieties to lure consumers and gain market share.
- In August 2022, ZOA Energy, the healthy energy drink and pre-workout supplement brand, announced the expansion of its line of Zero Sugar functional beverages with the launch of its innovative formula namely Cherry Limeade. The 120mg product is made of natural caffeine from green tea extract and green coffee. Containing vitamin C from camu camu and B-vitamins, the drink is formulated to increase immunity and concentration and boost energy and hydration.
- In February 2022, Clipper Teas, a British Fairtrade tea company added to its existing line of green tea range a new Organic and Fairtrade Green Tea & Mint. The tea is prepared by infusing green tea with a cooling menthol peppermint flavor.
- In June 2022, Indian-based Teame Teas, launched three varieties of wellness green tea infusions namely Ashwagandha Green Tea, Moringa Green Tea and Kadha Green Tea. The benefits offered by Ashwagandha Green Tea are attributed to the presence of a variety of herbs in it. Its daily intake helps one feel relaxed and calm and keeps one agile. The Moringa Green Tea makes for a refreshing soothing drink and may have several medicinal & recreational values. TE-A-ME Kadha Green Tea comprises ingredients such as pepper, cloves, ginger, asafoetida, cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg. The refreshing, spicy and healthful infusion provides relief from stress, helps relieve muscle cramps and improves digestion.
With constant innovation and developments in green tea and its potential health benefits, the future of green tea surely looks healthy. it is inevitable that market would witness remarkable growth in the coming years.
