Black, white, green are all colours that come to mind when we think of tea. Perhaps red if we consider rooibos (though it's not technically tea). But have you heard of purple tea?
Purple tea is a relatively new variety that originates in Africa. It has been in development for about 25 years in Kenya, which is one of the world leaders in the production of black tea. In development for a quarter of a century, purple tea was submitted to the Kenyan government for approval earlier this year, and just this past August, for commercial production.
According to Tea Research Foundation of Kenya, purple tea is high in anthocyanin, a flavenoid and powerful antioxidant with health enhancing properties.
You see plants that contain anthocyanin quite often, especially at this time of year as leaves change colour.
Dark purple pansies, bright red skin of apples, the red pigmentation of blood oranges, and the dark skins and pigments of cranberries, blueberries and raspberries.
Although more research is required, it would appear that foods rich in anthocyanins, there is laboratory based evidence that there is potential health benefits against cancer, aging and neurological diseases, inflammation, diabetes and bacterial infections. None of this research is associated with the purple tea yet, but based on pigments in berries such as black raspberries.
It sounds like it may still be some time before purple tea is readily available in Canada. Meantime, you'll just have to enjoy your favourite black, white and green varieties available through Steeped Fine Loose Teas!
Purple tea. Now you know!







