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Tea Gains FDA Approval for "Healthy" Label: What It Means for Upland Tea House

Beverly Glover

In a landmark decision, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on December 19th an update to the “healthy” nutrient content claim for food and beverages. This is the first revision to this claim since the 1990s, and it aims to help consumers identify foundational foods for healthy dietary patterns. For the tea industry, this update represents a significant milestone, allowing tea products like tea bags and bottled teas to display the "healthy" claim if they meet specific criteria.


Tea products must contain less than five calories per 12 fluid-ounce serving to qualify. This includes carbonated and non-carbonated teas, as well as those featuring non-caloric flavors, low- or no-calorie sweeteners, vitamins, or minerals. This new ruling not only highlights the inherent benefits of tea but also sets the stage for tea brands like Upland Tea House to position their products more prominently within the wellness market.


At Upland Tea House, we’ve always championed tea as more than a beverage—it’s an experience rooted in intention, sustainability, and health. While this FDA update opens new marketing opportunities, it also reminds us of the importance of transparency. As we embrace this milestone, it’s worth noting that restrictions still exist around marketing tea’s health and functional benefits. For a deeper dive into this topic, explore our earlier article, "Is Tea Medicine? The Truth Behind Health Claims in the Tea Industry."


This FDA update is a step forward in bridging tradition with modern health-conscious trends, and Upland Tea House is excited to be part of this evolving narrative.

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